Goa’s maritime history is a tapestry of ancient ports, bustling trade, and cultural exchange. With a 105km coastline hosting ports like Gopakpattan and Chandrapur, the state was a vital hub for ships and traders. These ports were crucial for spice trade and cultural exchange, shaping the vibrant heritage of Goa. Archaeological remnants continue to showcase the state’s enduring ties with foreign countries.
Major shipping lines like MSC and CMA CGM are receiving preferential treatment at terminals where they have business ties or stakes, causing disruptions for smaller lines. MSC has stake in Adani Ennore Container Terminal and CMA CGM recently won rights to operate a terminal at Nhava Sheva, impacting other vessels waiting for berths. Industry insiders note smaller lines diverting to alternative terminals due to schedule disruptions, leading to a rise in transhipment volumes at JNPA.
Shipping Corporation of India is establishing a subsidiary in GIFT City to benefit from tax incentives in the special economic zone, pursuant to the central government’s directive to state-run firms. The IFSCA in GIFT City grants tax holidays, exemption from GST, and other benefits for maritime companies to boost Indian flagged tonnage and meet trade targets.
The plan includes modernizing major ports, improving waterway capacity, and supporting marine education. A road map will be created to establish a network of modern ports to boost trade and prosperity in India. Embracing advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and strategic collaborations will ensure competitiveness and resilience in the maritime sector.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced the development of a dedicated waterway from Varanasi to Dibrugarh via Haldia port. This initiative aims to facilitate low-cost cargo movement and discussions are underway to transport essential goods through the waterways. Global tenders have been issued for dredging the Brahmaputra river to maintain shipping channels year-round.
The booming market scenario in the shipping industry due to the diversion via the Cape of Good Hope has led to a high demand for container ships and bulk carriers. Despite SCI’s plan to expand its fleet with six vessels, including container ships and tankers, fleet owners have been reluctant to respond to their requests for additional second-hand tonnage.
India’s electric vehicle (EV) sales soared to a record high of 1,752,406 units in FY2024, with a 40.31% increase from the previous fiscal year. Electric two-wheelers (E2Ws) and electric three-wheelers (E3Ws) drove the surge, comprising 94% of total EV sales. E2Ws led the charge, with sales of 1,009,356 units, reflecting a 29% year-on-year increase and indicating a shift towards sustainable transportation options in India.
Maintenance dredging is crucial for keeping the shipping channel at the Hugli Estuary navigable for efficient maritime traffic. Caring for this important waterway ensures safe passage for ships to and from Haldia Dock, supporting essential maritime trade in the area.
JNPA aims to increase throughput to 7 million TEU in FY25, driven by export growth after a decline in FY24. With plans to reach a capacity of 10 million TEU by April 2025, the port will expand operations to handle transshipment traffic. Vadhavan port development is also underway to accommodate future demand.
The Kerala Maritime Board is making significant investments in ports along the coast, with a focus on increasing draught and infrastructure. Jetties and cranes are being set up at key ports, including Beypore, with plans to improve facilities and security measures to meet international standards.
Sarbananda Sonowal, a prominent BJP leader, has been appointed as the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways in the NDA government. Sonowal, representing the Dibrugarh Lok Sabha constituency in Assam, is committed to advancing India’s maritime sector. His appointment signifies a strategic focus on enhancing the country’s presence in the global maritime industry and achieving maritime goals.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI), led by Chairman Dushyant Mulani, organized a delegation visit to Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) on May 31, 2024. FFFAI joined the Gujarat Maritime Cluster, enhancing collaboration in the maritime and logistics sectors to drive trade efficiency and industry growth, marking a significant milestone for India’s logistics industry.
The Cochin Port Authority, in collaboration with the Indian Ports Association, held a workshop on ‘Pathway for a Successful Green Hydrogen Pilot at Cochin Port’ to explore hydrogen fuel development opportunities. Over 50 industry partners attended, discussing the port’s potential in developing a bunkering facility for green hydrogen and its derivatives.
The University is gearing up to offer programs in maritime law, shipping finance, management, and more to cater to the commercial aspects of the maritime industry. Additionally, short-term Executive Development Programs will be available. The second phase will focus on the technical aspects of the field, providing a well-rounded education for those interested in pursuing a career in maritime.
India is pushing for Green Hydrogen demand with SECI’s Request for Selection of Green Ammonia Producers. Through the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) Programme, MNRE is facilitating a total capacity of 5.39 lakh MT/annum for Green Ammonia production. This move aims to boost the green ammonia sector and support fertilizer companies.
