India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has called for a technology-led approach to maritime security as the country expands its port network and digital infrastructure.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal set out the proposal at the second National Port Security Conference 2026 in New Delhi on 6 August.
The ministry said the framework should place greater emphasis on cyber resilience, digital infrastructure and coordination between government and maritime agencies as ports face new security risks.
Sonowal said ports should be assessed not only on cargo throughput and operational efficiency, but also on their ability to withstand changing security threats.
“Safe Ports create Strong Trade. Strong Trade creates a Strong Economy. And a strong economy builds a strong Nation,” Sonowal said.
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The ministry identified cyberattacks, drone incursions, supply chain vulnerabilities and threats to digital infrastructure among the issues affecting maritime security.
Sonowal also highlighted the Bureau of Port Security, established under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025. The ministry said the bureau will provide a dedicated institutional framework for regulatory oversight, standardised security practices and coordination between maritime agencies.
Digital initiatives, including e-Samudra, the Maritime Single Window and the One Nation One Port Process, were also discussed at the conference.
The ministry said the development of smart ports and digital systems should be accompanied by stronger cybersecurity and risk-management measures.
Around 140 participants attended the conference, including officials from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of Home Affairs, Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, State Maritime Boards, major port authorities, non-major ports and industry.
Vijay Kumar, Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, called for a “Security by Design” approach, under which security considerations would be incorporated throughout port development.
Dr Rajendra Kumar, Secretary for Border Management at the Ministry of Home Affairs, also called for greater use of technology and closer coordination between agencies to address cyber, drone and transnational maritime threats.
Technical sessions at the conference covered the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, cybersecurity, geopolitical risks affecting global shipping and emerging maritime security practices.
Participants were expected to formulate recommendations aimed at strengthening India’s port security framework following the discussions.
The initiative comes as Indian authorities continue to expand digital systems across the maritime sector, with the ministry linking that transition to the need for stronger protection of port and trade infrastructure.
The ministry described maritime security as a strategic requirement as ports become more reliant on connected digital infrastructure and technology-led operating systems.
For more information:
India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways – https://shipmin.gov.in/