India to Launch e-Samudra: A Digital Overhaul of Maritime Governance and Sustainability

New Delhi, India — India is preparing to launch e-Samudra, a comprehensive web-based platform aimed at modernising its maritime sector through digitisation and sustainable practices. Set to go live in October 2025, the initiative is expected to streamline operations across ports, shipping, and coastal trade, while aligning with the nation’s climate and economic development goals.

With a coastline exceeding 11,000 kilometres and more than 200 ports—12 of which are major—India’s maritime industry handles approximately 95% of the country’s cargo by volume and 75% by value. This makes maritime reform a critical component of India’s broader infrastructure and sustainability agenda.

Integrated Approach to Maritime Digitisation

e-Samudra, developed by CMS Computers in partnership with the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), is designed as a single digital window for stakeholders to manage regulatory and operational functions. The platform will integrate over 60 modules covering ship registration, crew certification, maritime safety, port services, and compliance monitoring.

By consolidating these functions into one interface, e-Samudra aims to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies, improve data transparency, and reduce delays caused by paper-based systems. Built on a cloud-based architecture, the platform offers scalability and ensures secure access for both central and state maritime authorities. Cybersecurity has been prioritised to protect critical data within the connected ecosystem.

Environmental Sustainability and AI Integration

The initiative is part of a wider national push under the Maritime India Vision 2030, Sagarmala programme, and the Viksit Bharat 2047 roadmap. These frameworks seek to boost port capacity, enhance multimodal logistics, and achieve sustainable growth through cleaner operations.

As part of the government’s climate targets, e-Samudra supports port decarbonisation efforts. The goal is to have 60% of port operations powered by renewable energy by 2047. Initiatives include the adoption of LNG and other clean fuels, solar-powered infrastructure, and energy-efficient cargo handling systems.

Advanced technologies such as geospatial mapping, predictive analytics, and AI-powered dashboards will be embedded into the platform to assist with real-time monitoring, decision-making, and environmental compliance.

Governance Transformation

The introduction of e-Samudra represents more than a digital shift; it marks a transformation in maritime governance. The DGS, traditionally a regulatory body, is evolving into a modern maritime administration with a broader mandate. In addition to compliance and safety, it will now also focus on digital innovation, skill development, and competitiveness in line with International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions like SOLAS and MARPOL.

To ensure a smooth transition, nationwide training and onboarding programmes are being launched for port authorities, shipping companies, and maritime professionals. The platform’s inclusive rollout strategy is designed to engage both public and private sector players—domestic and international—toward a shared vision of a smart and green maritime economy.

Broader Impacts on Urban Sustainability

Beyond maritime corridors, the reform is expected to have a positive environmental and economic impact on urban centres. Cleaner port operations and improved logistics efficiency will help lower pollution in coastal cities, enhance air quality, and reduce transport costs—contributing to India’s wider sustainable urban development objectives.

As the country moves toward its centenary of independence in 2047, e-Samudra is positioned as a flagship initiative of India’s blue economy strategy—merging digital infrastructure with environmental stewardship to shape a more resilient and future-ready maritime sector.