Shipping companies experienced a surge in demand for their shares during the intraday trading session, with prices rising by up to 20%. Media reports hint at positive announcements for the sector in the upcoming Union Budget, with expectations of an allocation between ₹15,000 crore and ₹20,000 crore for the Maritime Development Fund. The possibility of the Harit Nauka scheme being announced further boosted market sentiment, leading to significant gains in stocks like Shipping Corporation of India, Shreyas Shipping, and others. Companies involved in shipbuilding, such as Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Cochin Shipyard, are also seeing gains, with potential benefits from the Maritime Development Fund. Notably, the Harit Nauka scheme includes incentives for hydrogen-powered ships, favoring companies like Cochin Shipyard. Analysts believe that the fund could address the maritime sector's funding requirements, enabling initiatives like shipbuilding, decarbonisation, green energy adoption, and technology innovation. Despite recent exceptional returns in shipbuilding stocks, the sector lacks access to sufficient financial resources, hindering its growth potential. The potential budget allocation to the maritime sector could bridge this gap and support the sector's pivotal role in the country's trade and economic growth.