Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated a green hydrogen pilot plant and laid foundation stones for several port development initiatives at V O Chidambaranar (VOC) Port on Friday.
Addressing the gathering, Sonowal highlighted the transformative impact of the Sagarmala programme, particularly in uplifting coastal communities through modern fishing harbours.
“Through Sagarmala, we have developed four major fishing harbours at Koonthookal, Pompuhar, Sinamoton, and Mukaiyard, thereby creating better livelihood opportunities for our coastal communities,” he said.
Sonowal emphasized that Tamil Nadu is playing a pivotal role in India’s maritime growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“Under PM Modi’s leadership, we are reclaiming our maritime legacy through commerce, connectivity, innovation, and cooperation. Innovation in the maritime sector is now anchored in Tamil Nadu,” he noted.
He also praised the contributions of the National Technology Centre for Port, Waterways and Coast at IIT Chennai, which has been instrumental in delivering engineering solutions for the sector.
“The Centre at IIT Chennai has already provided multiple engineering innovations. In addition, Chennai recently hosted the ‘Maritime Hackathon Marathon 2025,’ a first-of-its-kind initiative to foster sector-wide innovation and collaboration,” Sonowal said.
Looking ahead, the Union Minister spoke about strategic developments, including the creation of the Eastern Maritime Corridor linking Chennai to Vladivostok, and the expansion of cruise tourism.
“We are establishing new corridors like the Eastern Maritime Corridor to Vladivostok via Chennai. Cruise tourism is also gaining momentum. With a new Tamil Nadu–Sri Lanka circuit and upgraded passenger terminals, we are unlocking new coastal and cultural experiences,” he added.
In a tribute to freedom fighter V O Chidambaranar on his birth anniversary, Sonowal recalled his pioneering efforts in launching the “swadeshi shipping” movement.
“Today marks the birth anniversary of a great patriot, V O Chidambaranar, who made history with his determination to develop indigenous shipping. I pay my heartfelt tribute to him. It is essential that the younger generation remembers his legacy and contributions,” he said.
