Overview The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) , Government of India, is preparing to host India Maritime Week 2025 (IMW 2025) from October 27th to 31st, 2025 at NESCO Grounds, Mumbai . This event is projected to be the world's largest maritime gathering, uniting key stakeholders from the maritime sector. The theme for IMW 2025 is “Uniting Oceans, One Maritime Vision” , highlighting India’s strategic ambition to become a global maritime hub and a leader in the Blue Economy . Key Participants and Inauguration The inauguration ceremony will be led by Shri Amit Shah , the Hon’ble Union Minister of Home Affairs. He will be joined by several prominent state leaders: Shri Devendra Fadnavis , Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Bhupendra Patel , Chief Minister of Gujarat Dr. Pramod Sawant , Chief Minister of Goa Shri Mohan Charan Majhi , Chief Minister of Odisha Ministers from 11 countries , along with their respective industry delegations, will participate in various sessions throughout the five-day event, demonstrating growing international interest in India’s maritime sector. Statements from Leadership Shri Sarbananda Sonowal , Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, stated, “India Maritime Week is more than an event; it will position India as a global maritime hub, promote green and sustainable shipping, and enhance international maritime trade and connectivity.” International and National Representation India Maritime Week 2025 anticipates participation from over 100,000 delegates and confirmed representation from more than 85 countries . The event will host global maritime industry leaders, international organizations, and policy think tanks. State ministers and Lieutenant Governors from across India will also be in attendance, showcasing regional maritime strengths and investment opportunities. Prime Minister's Address and Strategic Engagement A significant highlight of India Maritime Week 2025 will be the address by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi , to the nation, global maritime leaders, and stakeholders on the evening of October 29th during a special plenary session. In addition to the public address, the Prime Minister will chair a high-level global CEO forum with selected international CEOs from leading maritime companies worldwide. Industry and Investment Opportunities With over 350 international speakers , IMW 2025 is set to be a central hub for industry expertise and strategic dialogue. The event is expected to facilitate the execution of over 600 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) , amounting to more than ₹10 lakh crore in investment commitments. Exhibition and Conference Line-up A comprehensive exhibition featuring over 400 exhibitors will run alongside an extensive conference schedule. IMW 2025 will host more than 12 flagship events , including: The 4th edition of Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS 2025) QUAD Ports of the Future Conference Sagarmanthan – The Great Oceans Dialogue SheEO Conference The UNESCAP Asia-Pacific Dialogue The event will also feature 4 country sessions including Norway, Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden , and 11 state/UT sessions including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Andaman & Nicobar . UPSC Relevance This event is highly relevant for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, particularly for the following areas: GS Paper II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors. GS Paper III: Infrastructure (Ports, Shipping, Waterways), Investment Models, and Economic Development. GS Paper II: International Relations, focusing on maritime cooperation and trade. Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants Focus on the event's theme and its implications for India's maritime strategy. Note the key participants and their roles in promoting the maritime sector. Understand the potential economic impact of the investment commitments. Be aware of the various flagship events and their significance. Consider the geopolitical implications of India's growing maritime influence.