India’s dependence on foreign vessels has been identified by the government as a strategic weakness, with plans outlined to expand domestic maritime capabilities, according to economictimes.indiatimes.com. The position reflects concern that reliance on non-Indian tonnage exposes the country to external vulnerabilities and limits national control over critical maritime transport capacity. The material provided frames the issue as one of strategic resilience rather than short-term market efficiency. India’s maritime sector underpins a trade-dependent economy in which the majority of external commerce moves by sea. Over recent years, policymakers have periodically raised concerns about strategic exposure linked to this structure, particularly in the context of supply-chain resilience and national security considerations.

Source: Economic Times February 26, 2026 15:18 UTC