In the bustling halls of Nor-Shipping 2025, Oslo, a significant chapter in maritime collaboration unfolded. India and Norway, two nations with a shared passion for the sea, are doubling down on their partnership in green and digital maritime technologies. This isn’t just about ships and ports; it’s about steering the maritime industry towards a sustainable, innovative future.
India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, rolled up his sleeves and got down to business with Norway’s Transport Minister Jon-Ivar Nygård and Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy Marianne Sivertsen Næss. The agenda was packed with heavy hitters: clean shipping, smart port infrastructure, and the Blue Economy. Sonowal didn’t mince words, “India is working at scale on green shipping solutions.” He laid out the plans: green tug transition, e-methanol bunkering, hydrogen-powered vessels—all part of India’s Green Coastal Shipping Programme and the Maritime India Vision 2030.
But here’s where it gets interesting. India is eyeing Norway’s expertise in electrifying ferry systems. Imagine ferries zipping across the water, powered by clean energy. It’s not just a pipe dream; it’s a tangible goal. Both countries are exploring co-development and manufacturing of electric ferries and vessels to meet the global demand. It’s a win-win: India gets the tech, Norway gets the market.
Now, let’s talk ports. India’s port modernisation agenda is a beast, focusing on digitalisation, clean energy, and public-private partnerships. They’re not just building ports; they’re transforming them into innovation engines. Norway, with its MAITRI initiative and leadership in AI-powered port operations, is a natural partner. Together, they’re looking to develop smart, low-emission maritime ecosystems.
Data and emerging technologies are the lifeblood of this collaboration. IoT, automation, digital twins—these aren’t just buzzwords; they’re tools to enhance real-time visibility, security, and operational efficiency. Both nations are acknowledging the potential for co-innovation in climate-resilient infrastructure and smart shipping corridors. It’s about building a future where ports are not just hubs of trade, but beacons of sustainability.
Norway’s success in green maritime solutions is a model India wants to follow. From ship recycling to ocean renewable energy, the potential for collaboration is vast. India’s Alang Ship Recycling Yard is a prime example. They’re focusing on green technologies and higher environmental and safety standards. It’s about shifting to circular maritime practices, with improved training, monitoring, and waste management systems.
But it’s not all about the tech. Gender equity in the maritime sector is a big deal. Sonowal reaffirmed India’s commitment through initiatives like ‘Saagar Mein Samman’, promoting women seafarers. He invited Norway to collaborate on advanced seafarer training in areas like polar navigation, cybersecurity, and emerging maritime technologies. Upskilling the maritime workforce is essential for the digital and green transition.
And then there’s the Arctic. A joint feasibility study to operationalise the Northern Sea Route (NSR) was proposed. India is interested in working with Norwegian agencies on Arctic R&D, ice-class vessel design, and advanced navigational systems. It’s about ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations in extreme conditions.
This partnership is more than just a handshake agreement. It’s a strategic move towards a digital, green, and inclusive maritime future. Sonowal summed it up perfectly, “The momentum we’ve created today will drive innovation, sustainability and transformative action in our maritime collaboration.” It’s not just about what’s happening now; it’s about shaping the future. This news is a wake-up call for the maritime industry. It’s a challenge to innovate, to collaborate, to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The future of maritime is green, it’s digital, and it’s happening now. So, buckle up. It’s going to be one heck of a ride.