India’s maritime sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by investments in infrastructure, technology and integrated logistics. As ports evolve from cargo-handling facilities into increasingly connected and technology-enabled ecosystems, building efficient, resilient and globally competitive maritime infrastructure is becoming critical to India’s growth ambitions.
Against this backdrop, Essar Ports partnered with the ETInfra Global Ports & Shipping Summit 2026, held in Mumbai this week, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders and stakeholders from across the maritime and logistics ecosystem.
Ashish Vijay Rajgarhia, Chief Executive Officer, Essar Ports, joined fellow industry leaders and experts for a panel discussion on “Smart Ports, Dredging, Digital Infrastructure & Integrated Maritime Logistics.”
The conversation explored how connected data, predictive dredging, reliable infrastructure and cyber resilience can strengthen maritime competitiveness, while digital integration and emerging technologies reshape the way ports operate.
Sharing his perspective, Ashish highlighted the importance of certainty and predictability in enabling long-term private investment. With port infrastructure requiring significant capital and investment horizons spanning decades, clarity around concession frameworks, navigational depth and infrastructure requirements is critical to creating an environment that supports sustained private participation.
On the evolution of smart ports, Ashish emphasised that AI, robotics, automation and digital platforms are ultimately enablers. Their value lies in delivering tangible operational outcomes, enabling cargo to move faster, more efficiently, safely and predictably from ship to shore to the customer.
He also highlighted the importance of optimising existing infrastructure and assets, with digital twins, automation and integrated platforms offering opportunities to improve productivity, safety, cost efficiency and sustainability.
The panel discussion reflected the broader industry focus on building smarter, more resilient and efficient ports that can support India’s growing maritime and logistics ambitions.
For Essar Ports, the dialogue highlights the importance of combining infrastructure strength, operational excellence and technology-led innovation to build ports that are equipped for the evolving needs of customers and the next phase of India’s maritime growth.
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