Kerala Ports Minister V N Vasavan celebrated a milestone as nearly 400 container ships have docked at the Vizhinjam transshipment hub within its first year. The port, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2, showcases India’s advancements in automation and AI, benefiting over 100,000 people through various social initiatives.
India has officially announced its candidacy for re-election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council during the 134th session in London. Emphasizing maritime safety and gender inclusivity, the announcement, made at the IMO Headquarters, reflects India’s commitment to enhancing global maritime cooperation under its Vision 2047 strategy.
As India enters a new maritime era, Company Secretaries (CS) are transforming from traditional roles to strategic navigators in governance. They interpret significant legislation like the Bills of Lading Act, 2025, ensuring compliance and cybersecurity, while advising on treaty risks and integrating ESG factors into corporate strategies for a sustainable maritime future.
The Reserve Bank of India has exempted tugboats, dredgers, and offshore support vessels from Export Declaration Forms, aiming to enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, the RBI increased the maximum advance remittance for ship imports to $50 million, aligning maritime financial conditions with aviation and addressing long-standing industry concerns.
The Indian shipping ministry is working to create tax parity between domestic and foreign-flagged vessels, aiming to reduce costs for local operators. Proposed tax adjustments are under review, addressing concerns from Indian shippers about higher domestic costs. The goal is to support growth in India’s maritime sector, which has struggled significantly.
India is emerging as a prime destination for international marine investors, offering 100% FDI in shipping and shipbuilding. Key incentives include a decade-long tax holiday and zero GST on ship imports. At the ‘India Maritime Investment Meet’ in London, officials outlined plans to enhance port capacity and foster sustainable growth.
India’s Shipping Secretary TK Ramachandran has called for a comprehensive review of maritime incidents involving foreign-flagged container vessels, particularly those linked to undeclared hazardous cargoes. At the IMO session, he emphasized the need for improved safety protocols and investigation of incidents like MSC ELSA 3 to enhance global maritime standards.
India’s delegation, led by Shri T.K. Ramachandran, is participating in the 134th IMO Council session in London, focusing on maritime safety and gender inclusivity. Advocating for enhanced safety protocols and gender equality, India aims to influence international policies, fostering a safer and more equitable maritime sector for all nations.
Under the Cruise Bharat Mission, Gujarat plans three cruise circuits along its coast, featuring destinations like Diu, Jamnagar, and Dwarka. Clusters include Padala Island and routes connecting historical and cultural sites within 100 km. The Gujarat Maritime Board is enhancing infrastructure and promoting sustainable cruise tourism growth.
Interorient, established in 1979 and managing over 100 vessels worldwide, aims to enhance India’s maritime workforce significantly. This investment will create numerous job opportunities for Indian cadets and seafarers, reinforcing international confidence in India’s shipping sector and positioning the country as a vital maritime hub for future growth.
The Bench of Justice Ma Abdul Hakim has ordered the arrest of the MSC Akita II, valued at ₹9,531 crore, pending a July 10 hearing. The decision follows environmental claims citing pollution damages linked to the sunken MSC ELSA, impacting local fisheries and resulting in significant losses for fishermen.
The Union Environment Ministry submitted a confidential report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), reviewing the controversial Great Nicobar Island project amid allegations of environmental violations. The project, which includes a terminal and airport, threatens coral colonies and wildlife. An ₹80 crore fund was allocated for conservation efforts.
JSW Infrastructure Limited has received approval from the Syama Prasad Mookerjee port authority for reconstructing berth 8 and mechanizing berths 7 and 8 at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Dock. This £740 billion public-private partnership project aims to enhance container processing and boost operational efficiency, aligning with the government’s privatization strategy.
The Vizhinjam international seaport has achieved a remarkable milestone, handling over 800,000 TEUs from approximately 385 ships since its launch. It ranks third nationally, leading private ports in the eastern and southern regions. With plans for expansion, Vizhinjam is set to significantly enhance maritime operations in southern India.
The burned boxship Wan Hai 503 is currently under tow off India’s southeastern coast as salvors stabilize the vessel. Despite ongoing smoke from the holds, fire suppression efforts using foam have contained the flames. Tugs are on-site for cooling, while dewatering and alternative port options are being explored.
