India’s maritime heritage reminds us that the harbours of the past can be the hubs of the future. Historically, its port cities, such as Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Kochi, have been gateways to the world, fostering cultural exchange, commerce, and innovation. Today, they hold the potential to become centres of finance, services, and human talent. However, this transformation will require policy and institutional support grounded in reality.

‘Blue cities’ paradigm

The ‘blue cities’ paradigm recognises that maritime strength is built not just on trade but on ecosystems of knowledge-driven services, digital trade, sustainable shipping, the talent that drives them, and the communities that sustain and shape them.

Oslo’s zero-emission ferries and Rotterdam’s digital trade platforms show how

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