Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said that the Maritime India Summit will prove to be the first step in the direction of India becoming an economic super power. “Indian maritime sector was facing stagnation, but the situation has completely changed in last two years, due to focused efforts of the Ministry of Shipping,” he said, delivering the Valedictory Address in Mumbai. "India has glorious maritime history, dating back to Indus civilization. Many thinkers from China and France have unconditionally and undoubtedly accepted the fact. Sea route has played pivotal role in trade and cultural exchange from India with rest of the world," Singh added.
"Growth in maritime sector will directly lead to GDP growth of the country. Over all, the summit is a grand success. I congratulate shipping ministry for the event," the Home Minister said. Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways Sh. Nitin Gadkari said "development of any country depends upon the port activities and shipping. This is for the first time in history that 12 government owned ports have recorded profits to the tune of ₹4,200 crore. This is a significant achievement in the backdrop of poor financial condition of private players in the sector." The summit provided a platform for participation, engagement and interaction from 42 countries. More than 5000 delegates from around the globe participated in the Summit.