Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the 'Maritime India Summit 2021' via video conferencing. PM Modi said, "India is a natural leader in this sector. Our nation has a rich maritime history. Through this Summit, I want to invite the world to come to India and be a part of our growth trajectory. India is very sincere about growing in the maritime sector and emerging as the leading blue economy of the world." Prime Minister Modi also said, "Our govt is investing in waterways in a way that was never seen before. Domestic waterways are found to be a cost-effective and environment friendly way for transporting freight. We aim to operationalize 23 waterways by 2030."