Why in news?
“Samudra Se Samriddhi” is a visionary programme launched by the Government of India, aimed at leveraging the country’s maritime resources to fuel economic growth, promote self-reliance, and transform India’s coastal and blue economy sectors.
 
Key Highlights

• The initiative was positioned as a nationwide movement to turn India’s vast maritime potential into prosperity through self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) and swadeshi (indigenous) practices.
• Programme featured the launch of transformative projects in maritime, LNG infrastructure, renewable energy, highways, healthcare, and urban transport sectors.
• Amajor cruise terminal in Mumbai, new port facilities in Kolkata and Paradip, and a Green Bio-Methanol Plant at Deendayal Port to enhance cargo movement and trade.
• It emphasizes reducing dependence on foreign goods, boosting Indian shipbuilding, improving port infrastructure.
• Coastal communities, modernized ports, and support for cruise tourism and related industries are core components, intended to make India a leading maritime nation.

 Strategic Objectives

• Strengthen port-led development across India, with Gujarat serving as a model due to its efficient handling of national maritime cargo (about 40% via its ports).
• Promote Make in India and local manufacturing, ensuring that what is bought and sold supports Indian industries.
• Empower shipping companies by classifying large vessels as infrastructure, thus easing financing and driving investments into the sector.
• Reduce foreign dependence and achieve self-sufficiency in maritime affairs as a pillar of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India).

 Recent Reform Measures

• The Coastal Shipping Act 2025 and Indian Ports Act 2025 are being introduced for governance simplification and greater private sector participation.
• India is focusing on green shipping, port-led growth, and investment roadmaps as part of its Maritime AmritKaal Vision 2047, but these are still in early implementation stages with significant hurdles regarding on-ground execution and investment.
• Initiatives are being launched to accelerate fleet expansion, technology upgrades, and port infrastructure.

 Importance for India

• The “Samudra Se Samriddhi” initiative integrates economic, historical, and cultural elements, aiming to turn India’s 7,500+ km coastline and maritime tradition into a source of sustainable prosperity.
• It directly contributes to job creation, indigenous industry boost, logistics efficiency, and heightened status in global maritime trade.

Conclusion
Samudra Se Samriddhi aims to reclaim India's maritime legacy and secure economic prosperity through the blue economy, but must overcome multi-faceted challenges in investment, infrastructure, governance, security, and environmental sustainability to realize its full potential.

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