The 21st Maritime State Development Council meeting in Mumbai marked a pivotal moment for India’s maritime industry. Key resolutions included the One Nation One Port Process reforms, aimed at streamlining operations across all ports by March 2027. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal introduced a guide to facilitate these changes effectively.
The Kerala Maritime Board (Amendment) Bill, 2026, restructures the state maritime board by appointing the chief minister as chairperson. This allows for integrated decision-making across various departments, enhancing efficiency. The bill also strengthens the board’s authority over minor ports, establishes a maritime land bank, and encourages public-private partnerships for investment.
In a swift maritime operation, the Indian Coast Guard intercepted the fishing boat Haridwar Krupa, suspected of diesel smuggling off Mumbai. After failing to respond during a challenge, the vessel attempted to evade capture but was detained. Up to 4,000 liters of illicit diesel were discovered, highlighting ongoing smuggling threats.
The Directorate General of Maritime Affairs (DGMA) convened a stakeholder meeting at Reliance Corporate Park to discuss the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds. Representatives from various sectors emphasized India’s pivotal role as the largest contributor, stressing the need for effective coordination and robust international agreements to enhance compensation and environmental safeguards.
Imagine dining on a floating hotel, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Atal Setu and the tranquil Panvel Creek. The Maharashtra Maritime Board is set to develop three floatels near Belapur jetty, enhancing maritime tourism with unique accommodations, dining, and entertainment options, while promoting private investment in waterfront hospitality.
Lloyd’s Register and Sagar Defence Engineering Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance the certification and regulatory acceptance of autonomous maritime systems. This partnership aims to align technological innovations with regulatory standards, ensuring safe and reliable operations while fostering collaboration with stakeholders to streamline certification pathways for these advanced technologies.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has condemned recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, particularly involving ships with Indian seafarers. They expressed concern over escalating maritime assaults, highlighted the need for dialogue between the U.S. and Iran, and emphasized the importance of safe navigation and maritime commerce.
India’s updated Merchant Shipping Rules, 2026, enhance maritime regulations for ships in coastal waters, mandating salvage and pollution-response contracts alongside existing insurance checks. Foreign vessels must now ensure emergency preparedness and carry valid Protection and Indemnity insurance, with compliance documents submitted 48 hours before entry to prevent penalties.
India and the EU have formed an industry coalition to create a green shipping corridor, enhancing cleaner maritime routes and promoting low-emission fuels. Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar emphasized the coalition’s role in uniting companies for sustainable practices, addressing emissions, and attracting investment to boost renewable energy in major ports.
Close to 200 senior executives from 62 Hydrogen Council member companies gathered at the Kandla Forum 2026, focusing on Kandla’s potential for green hydrogen and clean fuels. Organized by the Deendayal Port Authority, the event aimed to foster collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate maritime decarbonization and sustainable energy solutions.
India and Liberia have condemned recent attacks on shipping and seafarers, expressing outrage over assaults on commercial vessels in the Gulf and Black Sea. The joint statement emphasized the disruption of maritime trade and loss of lives, calling for an immediate halt to violence and a commitment to maritime security.
In light of rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a “rules-based” maritime order, emphasizing a secure and collaborative environment. He highlighted India’s commitment to shared prosperity through equitable access to maritime resources, reinforcing the significance of the upcoming India-EU Green Shipping Corridor initiative.
Gujarat plans to invest Rs 100 crore over five years to create the Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (M-BRIC) in Mocha village, Porbandar. This initiative aims to harness marine biological resources for high-value products, fostering business and employment opportunities while promoting sustainable practices and community training in coastal areas.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for his willingness to work together on transforming Visakhapatnam into a major maritime industrial hub. During an event at Hindustan Shipyard Limited, he highlighted the city’s strategic advantages and stressed the need for India to enhance its shipyard capabilities globally.
India is negotiating maritime agreements with Liberia and Panama to reduce reliance on foreign-flagged ships, currently comprising 95% of its trade volume. This initiative includes a ₹69,725 crore investment in domestic shipbuilding, aiming to enhance India’s maritime capabilities amid rising threats in the Strait of Hormuz and recent attacks on vessels.
