Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal called for a technology-led transformation of India's maritime security architecture at the 2nd National Port Security Conference 2026 in New Delhi. The Minister emphasized that India's expanding port network and growing role in global trade require security systems that are resilient, integrated and equipped to counter emerging cyber and geopolitical threats.
Sonowal stated that ports should be measured not only by cargo throughput and operational efficiency but also by their ability to withstand evolving security risks, citing cyberattacks, drone incursions, supply chain vulnerabilities and threats to digital infrastructure as key concerns. He highlighted the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 as providing a dedicated institutional framework to strengthen regulatory oversight, standardise security practices and improve coordination among maritime agencies.
The Minister also emphasized digital initiatives including e-Samudra, the Maritime Single Window and the One Nation One Port Process, noting that India's transition towards smart ports must be accompanied by equally robust cyber security and risk management systems. The conference brought together approximately 140 participants 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 representatives.
Secretary of MoPSW Vijay Kumar advocated a "Security by Design" approach calling for security integration into every stage of port development, while Secretary (Border Management) of Ministry of Home Affairs Dr. Rajendra Kumar stressed greater use of technology and inter-agency coordination to address emerging cyber, drone and transnational maritime security threats. Technical sessions covered the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, cyber security, geopolitical risks affecting global shipping, and emerging best practices in maritime security.