The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has made history by becoming India’s first Major Port to receive the IGBC Platinum Rating, awarded for its commitment to sustainability. The Administration Building features rooftop solar panels, IoT water meters, and energy-efficient designs, successfully reducing water usage and promoting renewable energy sources while ensuring occupant health and safety.
An Indian government panel has granted preliminary approval for acquiring additional Rafale fighter jets and maritime patrol aircraft, totaling billions of dollars. This decision, part of a broader defense initiative valued at approximately 3.6 trillion rupees, aims to enhance military capabilities and strengthen India’s strategic posture amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) and Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) have formed a consortium through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance India’s shipbuilding capabilities. Signed in Kolkata, this collaboration aims to develop maritime platforms and promote technological self-reliance, significantly advancing India’s naval infrastructure and indigenous shipbuilding efforts.
Mitsui E&S Co., Ltd. and TGE Marine Gas Engineering GmbH are exploring collaborations to supply marine engines to Indian shipyards, crucial for India’s shipbuilding ambitions. A high-level delegation is visiting India to assess opportunities, meeting with officials and visiting key shipyards to enhance local industry capabilities through strategic partnerships.
During a joint press conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the vital partnership with Seychelles under the Vision Mahasagar initiative. He emphasized Seychelles’ strategic role in enhancing regional security, economic collaboration, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean, framing the nation as an “inalienable partner” in achieving shared stability and security objectives.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the significance of skill development for India’s maritime sector at a Mumbai event. He awarded certificates to students completing courses and announced a partnership between Vadhvan Port Project Ltd and the Maharashtra government to offer free training, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a future-ready India.
Polestar Maritime Limited has ordered two 60-ton Bollard Pull Battery-Electric Green Tugs from Cochin Shipyard Limited. Designed for Jawaharlal Nehru Port, these tugs support India’s Green Tug Transition Programme, enhancing sustainability. Featuring battery-electric propulsion, they ensure zero emissions during harbor operations, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative.
The Indian Coast Guard disrupted a major international oil smuggling operation in the Arabian Sea on February 5-6, 2026. Intercepting three suspicious vessels 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai, the operation revealed a sophisticated network transporting low-cost oil from conflict zones, highlighting India’s enhanced maritime vigilance and commitment to regional security.
Mumbai’s historic eastern seafront is set for a transformative overhaul, with projects worth Rs 22,672 crore aimed at establishing it as a maritime and tourism hub by 2047. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized government commitment to revitalizing the port, enhancing operations, and creating vibrant new attractions for visitors and businesses.
In a groundbreaking move for maritime security, V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has introduced India’s first advanced Anti-Drone System. This system, featuring Radio Frequency and radar-based detection, enhances protection against unauthorized drones, ensuring robust operations. The initiative aligns with national security priorities, marking a significant step in safeguarding critical port infrastructure.
Dr. Mannepalli Gundala highlighted the Satavahana dynasty’s transformation into a commercial empire through international trade during a guest lecture at Andhra Loyola College. He discussed their socio-political evolution, emphasizing that agricultural prosperity and a strong military were crucial for establishing their dominance in trade and commerce.
Eight Indian seafarers have been cleared for release from Iran following a court ruling, offering hope to their families. They were part of a group detained when the oil tanker M.T. Valiant Roar was seized on December 8, 2022, facing harsh conditions during their captivity.
India’s Union Budget for 2026-27 continues to label major state-owned ports as “trusts,” overlooking reforms from the Major Port Authorities Act of 2021. This act aimed to grant autonomy to ports, replacing the trust model. Despite a 48% funding increase, inconsistencies in terminology and allocations raise concerns about strategic port management.
The Fast Patrol Vessel Amulya, measuring 51 meters and displacing 320 tonnes, is powered by dual 3,000 KW diesel engines, achieving speeds of 28 knots. Its advanced propulsion system, featuring indigenously developed Controllable Pitch Propellers, enhances maneuverability, enabling it to perform vital maritime missions, including surveillance and search-and-rescue operations.
VST Tillers Tractors Ltd. has launched its marine propulsion segment, introducing Next-Generation compact Marine Engines at the India Boat and Marine Show. Ranging from 18hp to 28hp, these engines prioritize fuel efficiency and reliability, designed for fishing and coastal sectors, featuring advanced Japanese technology for superior performance.
