The Directorate General of Shipping and Gujarat Maritime University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration in maritime law and governance. This partnership aims to strengthen India’s maritime sector through joint research, legal consultancy, and talent development, aligning with the government’s vision for a competitive maritime environment.
VO Chidambaranar Port in Thoothukudi is poised to sign an MOU with NTPC to advance a 1 MW green hydrogen project. Ongoing studies for a Green Corridor involve collaboration with the EU and ports of Singapore and Rotterdam. The port is also modernizing its facilities and implementing renewable energy projects.
Kandla’s CSR initiatives significantly contribute to community development. A notable program supports the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, providing nutritional kits to 334 tuberculosis patients. Additionally, a green hydrogen training program has empowered 28 participants with essential skills. These efforts underscore Kandla’s commitment to health, education, and sustainable growth.
The Kerala government has disclosed cargo details of the MSC ELSA, which capsized off Kochi. It carried 13 containers of calcium carbide, raising environmental concerns. Confusion about “cash” containers was clarified; they held cashew nuts. Criticism for the slow response mounts as local fishermen report diminished catches, fearing pollution impacts.
At the Nor-Shipping event in Oslo, Indian maritime companies secured pivotal shipbuilding contracts and formed partnerships centered on green technology. Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the collaboration with global leaders, aiming to enhance India’s maritime capabilities while promoting sustainable practices, innovation, and competitiveness in the global market.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) celebrated World Environment Day by announcing that 12 key ports achieved Zero Waste to Landfill certification. This milestone reflects their commitment to sustainability, with nearly 300 tons of plastic waste recycled last year. APSEZ also aims for net-zero emissions by 2040.
On World Environment Day 2025, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) emphasizes marine conservation along India’s 11,000 km coastline. The theme, #BeatPlasticPollution, underscores the urgent need to combat marine contamination. Initiatives like Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar have successfully removed over 194 tonnes of plastic waste, involving local communities and youth in these vital efforts.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong to strengthen economic ties and enhance India’s shipping sector. During his Singapore visit, Goyal discussed investment opportunities and addressed challenges faced by Indian exporters, emphasizing the new Maritime Development Fund aimed at boosting the domestic maritime industry.
Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal and Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon inaugurated the India Pavilion at Nor-Shipping 2025 in Oslo, marking India’s first appearance at the summit. The pavilion highlights India’s maritime capabilities and emphasizes collaboration in shipbuilding and marine technology. Sonowal invited Norway to partner in the National Maritime Heritage Complex.
India is actively seeking Norway’s collaboration on cultural, technological, and academic initiatives for the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal, Gujarat. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced this during his visit to Oslo, where he joined Crown Prince Haakon to inaugurate the India Pavilion at the Nor-Shipping event, highlighting maritime capabilities.
India’s Ministry of Port, Shipping, and Waterways is converting Sagarmala Development Company Ltd. into a non-banking financial company to support marine projects nationally and internationally. With plans to apply for RBI registration, SDCL will focus on leasing and debt financing for maritime enterprises, enhancing port infrastructure and connectivity.
By 2047, India aims to quadruple its port capacity to handle 10,000 million tons of cargo annually. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the importance of international partnerships in enhancing maritime infrastructure, including a collaboration with Norway’s Kongsberg to build India’s first Polar Research Vessel, aligning with the Maritime India Vision 2047.
The official opening of the Chu Lai–India international sea route marks a pivotal advancement for Truong Hai International Logistics LLC (THILOGI) in maritime trade. By enhancing the Ky Ha marine fairway, they enable 30,000 DWT vessels access, facilitating direct exports to South Asia and fostering economic growth in Central Vietnam.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has authorized Chhara Port in Gujarat for LNG imports, enhancing India’s energy security. This certification enables Simar Ports Private Limited to manage LNG operations in compliance with the Petroleum Rules. The approval is valid from May 19, 2025, to May 18, 2028, supporting national gas needs.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal met Japan’s Vice Minister Terada Yoshimichi in Oslo to strengthen maritime cooperation. They discussed shipbuilding, port digitalization, green initiatives, and transforming Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep into Smart Islands. Sonowal emphasized India’s eagerness for joint ventures and proposed training programs for Indian seafarers to support Japan’s maritime needs.
