The Maharashtra Maritime Summit 2025, hosted by Times Network in partnership with the Maharashtra Maritime Board and the Ministry of Fisheries and Ports, Government of Maharashtra, witnessed the State laying out a clear vision for port-led economic development, sustainable infrastructure, and global maritime integration.

As per an official press release, the summit was inaugurated with a keynote address by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who articulated Maharashtra’s ambition to align with India’s Maritime Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. Addressing a packed gathering of policymakers, industry leaders and infrastructure stakeholders, the CM emphasized the state’s historic maritime strength and its renewed push to become a central node in global supply chains.

“Mumbai rose as India’s economic engine due to the strength of its ports. Now, we are reinventing that role with infrastructure like the Samruddhi Mahamarg, which connects 15–16 districts directly to JNPA and cuts cargo delivery timelines dramatically,” said Fadnavis.

He also detailed progress on the long-delayed Vadhavan Port project, now revived through a joint venture with the Centre, with Maharashtra holding 26 percent equity. “Once operational, Vadhavan will be among the world’s top 10 ports and will power industrial linkages through road, rail, and potentially, India’s first offshore airport,” he added.

Nitesh Rane, Minister of Ports & Fisheries, reiterated the state’s resolve to globalise its maritime growth. “The Arabian Sea is our gateway to the world. Our recent engagements in the Netherlands have brought international investors like ING Group onboard, committing $1 billion to support green maritime infrastructure in Maharashtra,” he said.

Adding to the policy roadmap, Sanjay Sethi, Additional Chief Secretary, Transport & Ports, spoke about Maharashtra’s three-layered approach to development — short-term action, a 10-year strategy, and long-term vision till 2047.

Top industry voices also participated in the summit, including Rinkesh Roy, MD & CEO, JSW Infrastructure; Ashwani Gupta, CEO, Adani Ports & SEZ and Aashim Mongia of M2M Ferries, all echoing support for Maharashtra’s evolving port infrastructure ecosystem.