The Kerala government has announced a 35-year revenue waiver for Azhikkal Port’s development in Kannur. This initiative, part of the Sagarmala Programme, aims to transform the port into a significant greenfield facility. With an investment of Rs 3,000 crore, the project seeks to attract private partners and enhance financial viability.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated 16 infrastructure projects and 113 CSR initiatives worth ₹1,500 crore during the New Mangalore Port Authority’s golden jubilee. This investment aligns with India’s Maritime Vision 2030 and aims to enhance maritime infrastructure. The NMPA, managing over 46 million tonnes of cargo annually, plans to double this capacity by 2047.
HD Hyundai has partnered with the Government of India to support the “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,” enhancing shipbuilding capabilities. Recent discussions between Chairman Chung Ki-sun and Minister Hardeep Singh Puri focused on collaboration in ship design and fleet expansion. The partnership aims to modernize India’s maritime infrastructure with significant investments.
During Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi’s visit to the U.S. from November 12-17, India and the United States will review their robust defense partnership. Discussions will focus on enhancing maritime cooperation, operational linkages, and upcoming exercises like Milan. The visit underscores the commitment to a free Indo-Pacific amid growing regional military activity.
At the G7 meeting in Canada, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar presented a vision for maritime security, emphasizing the Indo-Pacific region’s importance. He advocated for port-led development and international cooperation, addressing challenges like piracy and illegal fishing. Jaishankar affirmed India’s commitment to a rules-based maritime order under UNCLOS.
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati addressed the Bali Yatra festival in Cuttack, calling it the “Mirror of Odisha’s Soul.” He urged the youth to embrace technology and innovation, reviving the spirit of ancient maritime traders. Kambhampati emphasized that the seas unite civilizations, celebrating both prosperity and ethics in Odia culture.
The Indian government’s new strategy to transform the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) into a strategic state carrier marks a departure from previous privatization efforts. With plans to enhance fleet capacity and partnerships through a Maritime Development Fund, the initiative aims to address declining profits and bolster India’s maritime needs.
The Mahanadi River came alive as Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the Mahanadi Boita Race 2025, celebrating Odisha’s maritime heritage. This vibrant event honors the ancient Sadhabas, featuring a competitive boat race with 15 teams. Parida highlighted the race as a tribute to Odisha’s rich history and future.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will inaugurate the revamped MMCT 2.0 campus of Mangalore Marine College on November 13. As Karnataka’s only marine college recognized by the Directorate General of Shipping, it offers advanced training facilities, including a Ship-in-Campus module and state-of-the-art simulators, to prepare students for maritime careers.
A delegation from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) visited the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) in Mumbai to enhance maritime cooperation. Discussions focused on India’s examination processes and training programs, aiming to explore opportunities for employing Indian seafarers in Japan’s shipping industry, reinforcing collaboration in maritime education.
The Odisha government is set to launch the inaugural ‘Mahanadi Boita Pratiyogita 2025,’ a boat racing event celebrating the state’s maritime heritage. Scheduled for November 11 near Gadagadia Ghata in Cuttack, it coincides with the Baliyatra festival, featuring teams from ten states and showcasing traditional and contemporary racing formats.
In a policy shift, the Indian government has established new deep-sea fishing regulations within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Prioritizing local fishermen and banning foreign vessels, the guidelines aim to enhance opportunities in tuna fishing while emphasizing sustainable practices and technological advancements in the marine fisheries sector. Effective November 4.
The arrival of the MV Capetan Vassilis II at Deendayal Port marks a transformative moment for India’s maritime logistics. As the first Premium Products Vessel, it shifts agri-input transport from traditional containers to bulk cargo, enhancing supply chain efficiency, reducing turnaround times, and ultimately improving product availability for farmers nationwide.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced a proposed bilateral free trade agreement between India and New Zealand, aimed at enhancing trade and investment. Speaking alongside New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, he highlighted mutual benefits, emphasizing collaboration in sectors like maritime, aerospace, and defense, as well as education and tourism.
On Kartik Purnima, Odisha comes alive with vibrant festivities as devotees partake in the Boita Bandana ritual. Early morning sees crowds at rivers and ponds, launching banana bark boats adorned with lamps and incense. This celebration honors ancient maritime traditions, symbolizing community unity and the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
