Image for representation purposes only India operates 12 Major and 217 Non‑Major Ports, handling diverse cargo types nationwide. India’s major and non-major ports handled 1,668 million metric tonnes of cargo during 2025–26, a figure rising with economic growth and trade expansion. India’s coastline extends around 11,098 kilometres, among the world’s longest, with natural harbours and port sites. Exclusive Economic Zone spans 2.4 million square kilometres, granting sovereign rights over marine resources and fishing activities. Inland waterways exceed 14,500 kilometres, offering rivers, canals, and backwaters for cost‑effective freight movement. Coastal states and territories border the sea, positioning population and industry to benefit from maritime trade. Maritime livelihoods support over 30 million people, including fishers, port workers, seafarers, and shipbuilders. Why India needs BMI Pool The Indian-flag fleet has grown to 1,609 ships and 14.33 million GT as of mid-2026, a roughly 36% increase in tonnage since 2015. 95% of India’s trade value and 70% of trade volume flows through maritime routes. Maritime Insurance: The Invisible Lifeline Marine insurance is mandatory for global trade. Hull and machinery policies protect vessels, cargo insurance safeguards goods, and Protection and Indemnity (P&I) covers liabilities like pollution or crew injury. War Risk insurance shields against piracy and conflict. Together, these make insurance a legal and commercial necessity for India’s shipping economy. Overdependence on Foreign P&I Clubs The International Group of Protection and Indemnity Clubs is made up of thirteen main clubs. Together, they insure about 90% of the world’s large ships against risks like cargo loss, pollution, collisions, and crew injuries. India has been dependent on foreign insurers for the insurance value chain. Indian shipowners rely almost entirely on 13 international P&I clubs, mostly based in the West. This dependence lea