Coastal shipping in India is undergoing a transformative shift, propelled by new policies and infrastructural advancements. With an 11,098 km coastline, its potential is now being harnessed, demonstrated by a projected cargo increase from 119.5 million tonnes in FY15 to 213.5 million tonnes by FY26, thanks to the Coastal Shipping Act of 2025.
In response to geopolitical tensions, India has expanded its liquefied natural gas (LNG) sourcing from six to 15 countries, enhancing energy security and mitigating maritime transit challenges. Additionally, crude oil sourcing has increased from 27 to 41 countries, aiming to reduce reliance on specific regions and improve resilience against supply disruptions.
The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has contracted Shearwater Geoservices AS for 3D seismic surveys along India’s coasts. Two high-capacity vessels will survey the West and East coasts, starting in Q4 2026. These surveys aim to enhance geological mapping for potential oil and gas deposits, crucial for domestic energy exploration.
Sasikumar highlighted the challenges large vessels face, noting the limited crew size makes continuous deck monitoring difficult. He raised concerns about rising fire incidents, particularly from lithium-ion batteries, which can escalate rapidly. Dtyle.AI’s edge devices provide timely fire detection, demonstrating effectiveness even in low bandwidth conditions during a recent pilot at Chennai Port.
India has launched its first sovereign-backed maritime insurance initiative to enhance domestic capacity for shipowners and cargo stakeholders amid fluctuating geopolitical conditions. This initiative aims to provide essential support in a sector facing rising costs and risks, while also addressing the need for reliable insurance solutions in a volatile market.
The Government of India launched E-Samudra, a digital platform to modernize maritime governance, enhancing services for seafarers, shipping companies, and ports. Initiated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, it streamlines maritime processes with features like online payments and real-time tracking, emphasizing seafarer welfare and positioning India as a leading maritime player.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, recently met with stakeholders in Mumbai to address seafarer security, safety, and welfare amid geopolitical tensions affecting the shipping industry. Emphasizing the government’s commitment, he discussed collaborative efforts to enhance protections for seafarers, crucial for global trade and maritime operations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has underscored the importance of safeguarding Indian vessels and seafarers following the sinking of an Indian-flagged ship in the Red Sea. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted ongoing communication with local maritime authorities and 24/7 support for affected individuals, reaffirming India’s commitment to safe navigation.
In New Delhi, reports indicate a notable reduction in average turnaround times for Major Ports, dropping from 52.87 hours in 2021-22 to 48.84 hours by 2025-26. The World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index ranks Jawaharlal Nehru Port 22nd, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency across various ports.
Reliance Industries has made headlines by securing a supertanker charter for $23 million to $25 million to transport Iraqi crude oil. This staggering fee highlights the rising shipping costs and vessel shortages in the Gulf due to security concerns. Reliance expects significant savings from discounts offered by Iraq’s oil marketer, SOMO.
The family of Deepak Gupta, a 22-year-old crew member missing after an attack near Ukraine’s Odesa port, expressed frustration over the Ministry of External Affairs’ lack of response. Despite multiple outreach attempts, they received no assurances. The Supreme Court has since directed the MEA to utilize diplomatic channels for assistance.
India’s maritime regulatory authority reports the tragic loss of 15 seafarers and two missing amidst rising conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea. At the National Port Security Conference, DGMA’s Shyam Jagannathan warned of increasing maritime security threats, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and coordination for seafarer protection.
Vizhinjam International Seaport has introduced formal procedures for crew sign-on, sign-off, and shore leave, effective February 1, 2026. This initiative, led by Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited, simplifies processes for Indian coastal and foreign vessels, aiming to enhance the regional maritime business ecosystem and reduce operational delays.
Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held a vital review meeting to assess the safety of Indian seafarers amid West Asia’s geopolitical tensions. Emphasizing the government’s commitment, he highlighted the successful repatriation of over 4,000 stranded seafarers, showcasing initiatives like the DGCOMM Centre and financial support for families.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced the successful repatriation of 4,052 Indian seafarers amid the West Asia crisis. He highlighted the efforts of the DGCOMM Centre, which managed over 16,000 distress calls. The government is providing financial assistance to affected families and reaffirmed its commitment to seafarer safety and welfare.
