On July 9, the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority signed a significant MoU with Belgium’s Port of Antwerp-Bruges and APEC Antwerp-Flanders Port Training Center. This three-year partnership focuses on training, sustainability, and digital transformation, reinforcing India’s commitment to green innovation in maritime operations and enhancing India-Europe maritime relations.
India has condemned the recent attack on the merchant vessel GFS Galaxy off Oman, describing ongoing assaults on commercial shipping in the Middle East as “deeply worrisome.” Ten of the eleven Indian crew members have been rescued, while search operations continue for the missing sailor. The government stresses the need for maritime security.
Goa has appointed the Captain of Ports to lead the newly formed Goa Maritime Board under the Indian Ports Act, 2025. This initiative aims to modernize port administration, enhancing statutory independence. The Captain will also supervise minor ports, improving oversight of safety and infrastructure, thereby contributing to Goa’s economic growth.
The Indian government has simplified licensing for entities in GIFT City that charter foreign-flag vessels for international operations, easing compliance burdens. This change, aimed at enhancing maritime finance, eliminates the need for licenses for ships not docking in India, fostering a competitive ecosystem in the International Financial Services Centre.
The Deendayal Port Authority in Kandla achieved a new operational record by loading 38,500 metric tonnes of bentonite onto the MV BUZZARD in just over 22 hours. This remarkable feat highlights the port’s commitment to efficient cargo handling and strengthens its position among India’s major ports, enhancing the country’s export competitiveness.
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has partnered with SCMS Water Institute to explore extending the Water Metro network from Aluva Metro Station to Cochin International Airport via the Periyar River. This sustainable initiative enhances last-mile connectivity and aims to alleviate road congestion while promoting climate-resilient urban mobility solutions in Kochi.
India and Indonesia are enhancing maritime cooperation by focusing on strategic initiatives like the Great Nicobar Island project and Sabang Port. During Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit, they discussed boosting mutual maritime awareness and collaboration between Coast Guards. Both countries aim to elevate bilateral trade and strengthen educational ties, fostering deeper industry collaboration.
Andhra Pradesh is actively pursuing investments from South Korean maritime manufacturers for its ambitious ₹30,000 crore Dugarajapatnam shipbuilding cluster. This initiative aims to enhance India’s domestic shipbuilding capacity, positioning the state as a key maritime hub with a projected capacity of 1.2 million gross tonnage, fostering regional economic development.
Kerala has initiated a review of Adani Ports’ proposed sale of a 49% stake in the Vizhinjam International Seaport. The state claims it wasn’t officially notified and is evaluating compliance with the concession agreement. Any ownership change over 25% requires government approval, raising concerns about the transaction’s legality and implications.
An Indian cargo vessel reportedly suffered a suspected drone attack in the Gulf of Oman, igniting fears over security in the Strait of Hormuz. This incident raises alarms about rising threats to commercial shipping, impacting freight costs and navigation rights crucial for global trade, particularly for Indian operators in the region.
The government’s Offer for Sale (OFS) to reduce its stake in Cochin Shipyard concluded on Wednesday, resulting in a 3.04% drop in shares, settling at Rs 1,404.30. The OFS allowed divestment of up to 5.04%, driven by strong institutional interest, leading to a full subscription in the non-retail segment.
Kamarajar Port in Tamil Nadu has emerged as India’s second major port with an 18-meter draft capability. This upgrade allows the port to accommodate vessels up to 170,000 DWT, enhancing cargo handling efficiency. A recent ₹440 crore dredging project strengthens India’s regional shipping position, meeting increasing cargo demands.
The Kerala government has disbanded the Kerala Maritime Board due to administrative failures and financial discrepancies. Effective immediately, this decision follows the Board’s failure to submit required Annual Administration Reports and issues highlighted in a recent audit, including revenue arrears and improper budget utilization. The intervention underscores accountability concerns.
As of Tuesday, 50 ships have navigated the Strait of Hormuz since the West Asia conflict began on February 28. Currently, nine Indian vessels are operational in the Persian Gulf, carrying 198 Indian seafarers. Experts warn that regular shipping operations may take time to resume in the region.
Operations at the Nhava Sheva Freeport Terminal were suspended following a tragic accident that resulted in one worker’s death and injuries to two others. Empty containers fell from an anchored vessel amid severe weather, impacting trucks. JNPA is investigating and has vowed support for the affected families.
