Maharashtra becomes the first state to take equity in a central government port project as Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Minister Nitesh Rane unveil 13 MoUs at India Maritime Week 2025.
28th October 2025 — Maharashtra has taken a historic step in India’s maritime development by leading the discussions and partnerships at India Maritime Week 2025, marking a new era in maritime infrastructure. The highlight of the event was the state’s significant role in the Vadhvan Port Project, one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure initiatives aimed at boosting trade, connectivity, and the blue economy.
At the MoU signing ceremony, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Minister of Ports & Fisheries Nitesh Rane announced the signing of 13 strategic agreements to enhance technology, shipbuilding, and sustainable transport. Chief Minister Fadnavis, delivering the keynote address, stated, “Maharashtra takes a decisive step towards becoming the maritime superpower of India. These partnerships will strengthen our shipbuilding, improve water transport, and create a sustainable ecosystem integrating with global supply chains.”
He also unveiled plans for clean, electric water taxis connecting Mumbai’s new airport to the Gateway of India, promoting green transport and tourism.
Minister Nitesh Rane facilitated the signing of the MoUs and emphasized Maharashtra’s pioneering role, highlighting that it is the first state to take equity in a central government port project — a landmark in cooperative federalism.
Sanjay Sethi, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary (Transport & Ports), noted that the initiative represents more than financial investment — it’s a long-term commitment to job creation and industrial expansion. He emphasized that the Nashik–Vadhvan road project would become a key growth corridor linking industrial regions and new economic centers.
Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairman of JNPA, underlined JNPA’s technical expertise, saying, “Vadhvan can be developed efficiently under JNPA’s guidance, ensuring sustainable reclamation and capacity-building for the next generation.” He also mentioned plans for green hydrogen-based liquid ports and hydro bunkering facilities as part of the sustainability roadmap.
From the private sector, Pranav Choudhary, CEO (Ports), Adani Ports and SEZ, highlighted the port’s design complexity and community-driven approach, ensuring digitalization and disaster resilience. Rinkesh Roy, CEO & Joint Managing Director of JSW Infra, stressed the importance of skills training and collaboration between government and industry to develop a holistic maritime ecosystem.
Adding a broader perspective, Madhu S. Nair, Chairman & Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard Limited, called for alignment in pricing, scope, and timelines to match the maritime efficiency of Japan, Korea, and China.
Together, the leaders envisioned Maharashtra as a global maritime hub — blending technology, sustainability, and industrial growth. With the Vadhvan Port Project, Maharashtra is set to redefine India’s maritime landscape, fostering innovation, regional development, and long-term prosperity for the nation’s blue economy.
