India, Japan Strengthen Maritime Cooperation to Develop Smart Islands

India Japan maritime cooperation on smart islands is gaining momentum as both nations deepen their strategic ties to promote regional security, digital infrastructure, and sustainable development across India’s remote archipelagos.

With an emphasis on Japanese shipyard investments, port digitization, green port efforts, R&D collaboration, and talent development, the summit sought to strengthen marine links between the two countries. Both parties looked at ways to improve cooperation on disaster-resilient infrastructure and sustainable technology, as well as ways to hire Indian seafarers in Japan.

They also discussed how to use better connectivity and sustainable development techniques to turn the Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands into “smart islands.”

Shri Sarbananda Sonowal acknowledged Japan’s wealth of experience in island territory development, saying, “Japan’s expertise in this area is highly valued.” We see opportunities for collaboration on the islands of Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar, especially in the areas of digital infrastructure, smart mobility, and renewable energy deployment. These programs will strengthen our mutual dedication to regional marine security and ecological preservation.

Increasing collaboration between Japanese and Indian shipyards, especially greenfield investments like Andhra Pradesh’s Imabari Shipbuilding, was another topic of discussion at the summit. Mutually beneficial opportunities for ports and maritime industry clusters to co-develop as renewable energy centers were also assessed.

Leading Japanese shipbuilding firms including Imabari Shipbuilding, JMUC, Kanagawa Dockyard, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are interested in exploring joint ventures and cooperative agreements with Indian yards, according to Shri Sonowal.\

Japan is known for its proficiency in shipbuilding and ship repair, and I believe there is a lot of room for cooperation in this field. We also extend an invitation to the Big Three Japanese maritime firms, NYK Line, MOL, and K Line, to investigate joint ventures and investment prospects in India’s expanding maritime industry.

Given our close bilateral ties, Japanese shipyards have a rare chance to participate in shipbuilding in India thanks to the country’s expanding marine sector. The resilience and sustainability of our marine logistics network would be further strengthened by cooperation on port digitization and green port projects, stated Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, India’s shipping minister.

“India-Japan relations have a long history rooted in spiritual affinity and strong cultural and civilizational ties,” the Union Minister said in his remarks on the occasion. Our shared dedication to enhancing regional marine security and economic integration is reflected in our partnership under the Quad framework and the India-Japan-Australia Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI). India values Japan’s leadership in important projects including the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

Under the visionary leadership of Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India is transforming its marine industry. Under the “Maritime India Vision 2030” and “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,” the country is improving shipbuilding, digitalization, green shipping, and port infrastructure. India wants Japan to take part in these revolutionary projects.

India and Japan have a very close connection, according to Terada Yoshimichi, Japan’s Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport & Tourism (MLIT). Japan and India have been working together to create railway infrastructure, but they are currently “very interested in the maritime sector.” Positive consideration was given to the possibility of working together on shipbuilding and seafarer training. He said he was happy with the encounter.

Both parties agreed to further increase collaboration in the marine sector, particularly on sustainable maritime technologies and next-generation ship design, while highlighting the need to deepen bilateral connections in maritime training and development as well as cooperation in research and development. In order to access prospective opportunities for cooperation with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Indian colleges, and government agencies, Shri Sonowal expressed India’s interest in a memorandum of understanding for a framework.

On upskilling and employment of India’s human capital, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said, “India currently has over 154,000 trained seafarers which is capable of support and supplement Japan’s maritime workforce.

In order to build capacity with rich maritime knowledge of Japanese maritime sector, we see a great opportunity for Japan’s maritime leaders in training, upskilling, and employing Indian seafarers, strengthening the cornerstone of our maritime cooperation. India is ready and keen to facilitate Japanese maritime player’s interest in training Indian engineers and workers through structured programmes.”

In Gujarat’s Lothal, India is building the National Maritime Heritage Museum (NMHC). It seeks to highlight India’s illustrious maritime heritage. It also functions as a top-tier hub for marine education, research, and historical tourism. Shri Sarbananda Sonowal expressed India’s desire to collaborate with Japan on this initiative.

The Minister hoped that the Memorandum of Understanding will be closed shortly. Additionally, he invited Vice Minister Terada Yoshimichi to attend India Maritime Week, 2025, which will take place in Mumbai from October 27 to October 31 of this year. Key players from the international maritime community will gather at this significant event to talk about and help explore prospects for investment, cooperation, innovation, and expansion in the marine industry.

“The deep and strong Indo-Japanese ties are rooted in mutual trust and shared values — democracy, freedom, and civilisational connection,” stated Shri Sarbananda Sonowal after the meeting. Our conversations with His Excellency Vice Minister Terada Yoshimichi today cleared the path for continued advancement of our marine cooperation. One of India’s most reliable investors is Japan.

This bond is really important to us. With a target of five trillion yen (₹3.2 lakh crore) in investments with Japan by 2027, India hopes to reach new heights under the leadership of Hon. Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji. Under the direction of our common goal of enhanced maritime cooperation that significantly advances global progress and benefits both nations, India and Japan will collaborate closely to create a sustainable future.

1. Maritime Collaboration Between India and Japan

Usage: Ideal for highlighting diplomatic engagements and formal agreements.

Image Description: Indian and Japanese officials shaking hands during a maritime agreement ceremony.

2. Scenic View of Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Usage: Perfect for showcasing the natural beauty of the islands targeted for smart development.

Image Description: Aerial view of the pristine beaches and lush greenery of the Andaman Islands.

3. Modern Port Infrastructure

Usage: Suitable for articles focusing on port development and maritime trade enhancements.

Image Description: State-of-the-art port facilities with cargo ships docked, representing advanced maritime infrastructure.

4. India-Japan Joint Naval Exercises

Usage: Highlights the defense and security aspect of the maritime cooperation.

Image Description: Naval ships from India and Japan conducting joint exercises in open waters.

In a significant stride towards enhancing regional connectivity and sustainable development, India and Japan have deepened their maritime cooperation with a strategic focus on transforming India’s remote islands into technologically advanced “smart islands.” This collaboration goes beyond defense partnerships and enters the realm of infrastructure, environmental sustainability, digital connectivity, and economic upliftment for strategically vital island territories.

A Strategic Maritime Bond

India and Japan have a long-standing maritime partnership shaped by shared values of democracy, open sea lanes, and mutual economic interests. This cooperation has now evolved to include a new dimension—smart island development. As part of their Indo-Pacific vision, both nations are increasingly committed to ensuring the prosperity and security of the Indian Ocean region. By working together on island infrastructure, the two countries aim to improve civilian and defense logistics while preserving the ecological balance of these sensitive areas.

Focus on Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands

The initial phase of the partnership focuses on the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands, both strategically located and underdeveloped despite their potential. These islands are not only key for India’s maritime security but also vital for developing sustainable tourism, clean energy systems, and digital infrastructure. Japan’s experience in building disaster-resilient and tech-enabled islands offers a perfect match for India’s developmental goals.

Green Ports and Blue Economy

One of the major thrust areas under this partnership is the modernization of port infrastructure with a focus on sustainability. Japan is helping India develop green ports on selected islands by integrating solar-powered systems, rainwater harvesting, and eco-friendly waste management. These efforts are aligned with India’s broader Blue Economy strategy, which seeks to harness oceanic resources responsibly while promoting job creation, marine conservation, and regional trade.

Digital Connectivity and Smart Infrastructure

Another pillar of the initiative is digital infrastructure. Japan will support the deployment of high-speed undersea fiber optic cables, smart grids, and remote health and education solutions. The goal is to connect these islands digitally with the mainland, allowing island populations to access services, e-commerce, and telemedicine platforms seamlessly. These technologies will also improve disaster response mechanisms, which are crucial for island regions vulnerable to cyclones and tsunamis.

Joint Naval Exercises and Maritime Security

The partnership is not limited to civil infrastructure. India and Japan continue to expand defense cooperation through joint naval exercises like JIMEX, maritime domain awareness initiatives, and coordination in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations. The presence of modern naval and communication facilities on smart islands will strengthen India’s maritime surveillance capabilities, offering better monitoring of regional sea lanes and countering illegal activities such as piracy and trafficking.

Sustainable Tourism Development

Japan’s support also includes eco-tourism planning that respects the fragile island ecosystem while promoting local economic development. From building smart resorts with minimal carbon footprint to training local communities in hospitality and service industries, the initiative aims to create sustainable livelihoods without compromising ecological integrity. The partnership emphasizes inclusive development, ensuring that island communities are empowered as both participants and beneficiaries.

Technology Transfer and Skill Building

In line with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) vision, the partnership promotes technology transfer and capacity building. Japanese firms will not only assist in project implementation but also train Indian personnel in smart infrastructure management, renewable energy systems, and digital security. This skill-building component ensures that local agencies can independently operate and maintain smart infrastructure in the long term.

Environmental Safeguards and ESG Compliance

Given the ecological sensitivity of island ecosystems, environmental safeguards are central to the smart island plan. Japan brings extensive experience in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance, which will guide all development efforts. Use of non-invasive construction methods, biodiversity assessments, and transparent impact monitoring are part of the framework. Both countries aim to create island models that can be replicated elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific without damaging local ecosystems.

Geopolitical Significance in the Indo-Pacific

Strategically, the partnership helps both nations advance their shared Indo-Pacific goals. As China increases its maritime presence in the Indian Ocean, India and Japan’s joint efforts present a counterbalance rooted in cooperation, transparency, and inclusive growth. By building infrastructure that serves both strategic and civilian needs, they strengthen deterrence while improving regional resilience.

Private Sector Participation and Investment Opportunities

The cooperation also opens doors for private sector collaboration. Japanese companies specializing in smart grids, renewable energy, and maritime logistics are being encouraged to partner with Indian counterparts and state agencies. Investment forums and public-private partnership models are being explored to ensure long-term financing and innovation. This will not only reduce the burden on public funds but also create business opportunities on both sides.

Cultural and People-to-People Linkages

Beyond strategic and economic factors, the cooperation is expected to foster cultural and social ties between the people of India and Japan. Exchange programs, tourism partnerships, and community-led conservation efforts are part of the broader plan. Such people-to-people engagement helps sustain long-term partnerships and encourages cultural understanding between two historically connected nations.

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