On Wednesday, the US Treasury implemented extensive sanctions against over 115 Iranian individuals and entities, marking a peak in its “maximum pressure” campaign. Targeting maritime interests tied to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, the sanctions aim to curtail Iran’s oil exports, significantly impacting the regime’s revenue and global trade networks.
Chowgule Shipyard, founded in 1916, evolved from a trading company into a leading shipbuilder. Since entering the export market in 2002, it has delivered 42 vessels and holds orders worth $861.90 million. Despite facing challenges, it invests in training and partnerships to enhance its capabilities, fostering optimism for future growth.
The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) recognizes Indian seafarers’ competence certificates without restrictions, praising their expertise. To prevent fraud, the PMA enforces strict evaluation standards aligned with STCW’78. Committed to enhancing global maritime cooperation, the PMA emphasizes safe transport and the well-being of seafarers as essential workers in the industry.
In a significant step towards enhanced maritime cooperation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and UAE National Guard Command have signed a Memorandum of Understanding during the 13th Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting in New Delhi. This agreement focuses on Maritime Security and Safety, aiming to strengthen ties and collaborative efforts.
India has begun constructing its first AI-equipped patrol vessel, the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV), to bolster maritime security. At 384 feet long and displacing 2,700 tons, it will support up to 121 personnel and achieve speeds of 23 knots, enhancing rapid response and extended patrol capabilities.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the nine Filipino crew members of the MV Eternity C, held by Houthi rebels, are in good condition and maintaining contact with their families. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized ongoing collaboration with foreign governments to monitor their welfare and facilitate their release.
Greenpeace India is calling on Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to take accountability for the sinking of the MSC Elsa 3 off Kochi. The incident released 450 tonnes of fuel and chemicals, contaminating local waters and impacting fishing communities. Legal actions against MSC are underway, with significant compensation sought for damages.
The Sagarmala Programme is progressing with 272 road and rail projects, including 74 completed and 67 underway, as highlighted by Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. With a focus on enhancing maritime infrastructure, 839 projects are planned, estimated at ₹5.79 lakh crore, incorporating Public-Private Partnerships for better execution and financial oversight.
On July 29, 2025, VPPL announced a new street infrastructure initiative at a board meeting to enhance Vadhvan Port’s growth. This includes an 8-lane NH-248S highway and a public-access two-lane service road. The project aims to improve local connectivity, support businesses, and foster comprehensive community development while adhering to global standards.
The “Enhance Vessel AI” project, led by AST Reygar, aims to transform vessel maintenance by using AI to predict issues before they become costly. Launching in September 2025, it collaborates with Seacat Services and others to enhance operational efficiency and reduce emissions, supporting the UK’s sustainable maritime goals.
India’s maritime sector is advancing with Cochin Shipyard Limited’s launch of a new Industry 4.0-ready plate cutting machine, enhancing digital transformation in shipping. Additionally, the Green Tug Transition Programme aims to replace diesel tugs with hybrid and electric alternatives, promoting sustainability. The government also amended financial assistance policies to support green shipbuilding.
The Ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with C-DAC to establish a Digital Centre of Excellence, enhancing India’s maritime sector. This initiative aims to modernize ports and shipping through advanced IT solutions. Additionally, the SAGAR SETU platform streamlines EXIM services, while a standardized Scale of Rates ensures tariff transparency.
Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels announced they had “rescued” 11 seafarers from the Greek-operated cargo ship Eternity C, which they attacked earlier this month. Photographs show ten crew members, but the status of the 11th remains unclear. Israeli media criticized the footage as propaganda, raising concerns about the crew’s treatment.
Ukraine is launching a pilot program for remote processing of Seafarers’ Identity Documents (SIDs) to assist maritime professionals stranded abroad due to conflict. A center in Warsaw will facilitate applications and renewals, streamlining the process and enhancing support for seafarers, while shifting responsibility to the Maritime Administration for efficiency.
A new shipboard system developed by STAX Engineering and Seabound aims to eliminate pollutants and CO2 emissions from vessels at sea. This integrated capture system connects to a ship’s exhaust pipe, effectively removing harmful pollutants like particulate matter and nitrogen oxides, addressing maritime shipping’s significant contribution to global emissions.
