The Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP), managed by the General Insurance Corporation of India, aims to bolster India’s maritime trade resilience and reduce reliance on foreign insurers. With a coverage capacity of $1.5 billion per loss, the initiative addresses rising global war-risk insurance costs amid increasing geopolitical tensions, ensuring uninterrupted trade.
India is advancing in maritime decarbonisation by utilizing renewable resources and green fuels. The report, Opportunities Ahead: Insights on Maritime Decarbonisation in India, highlights ongoing initiatives and sector strengths. However, challenges like securing agreements and infrastructure gaps must be addressed to ensure a successful transition to sustainable shipping practices.
India and Norway are enhancing cooperation in maritime, green energy, and startups. Norwegian Ambassador May-Elin Stener noted that Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming Oslo visit will strengthen ties. With 160 Norwegian companies in India, 70% in maritime, and a focus on sustainable energy, collaboration promises significant growth and innovation.
Reaching Lakshadweep has historically required long sea voyages or limited flights to Agatti Island. Starting May 13, 2026, trial seaplane flights from Kochi will assess a new commercial service linking the islands. This initiative, supported by key aviation bodies, aims to enhance connectivity and promote eco-tourism in the region.
ISWAN, in collaboration with the ISWAN India Association, is launching interactive sessions to support the wellbeing of seafarers, their families, and shore staff. Programs include the Family Outreach and Seafarer Education Awareness sessions, addressing the maritime community’s needs. Registrations close one week before each session. Visit ISWAN’s website for details.
The Indian Embassy in Spain confirmed the evacuation of two Indian crew members from the MV Hondius amid a hantavirus outbreak. Both are asymptomatic and in good health, now quarantined in the Netherlands. The ship, previously anchored in the Canary Islands, carried around 150 individuals during the incident.
The Awaaz Foundation has urged Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene against the proposed advertising regulations by the Maharashtra Maritime Board. Concerns include light pollution, biodiversity loss, and visual degradation of coastal areas. They emphasize the need for public consultations and stricter regulations to protect the environment and public health.
On May 9, the Indian Coast Guard commissioned the ICGS ‘Achal’, a fast patrol vessel by Goa Shipyard Limited. This advanced addition boosts India’s maritime security and coastal surveillance. Named ‘Achal’, meaning “firm,” it symbolizes the Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding maritime interests, constructed with over 50% indigenous components.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, reported that 11 Indian ships have successfully exited the Strait of Hormuz, while 13 remain in the Persian Gulf. He addressed concerns about Iranian vessels using alternative routes and emphasized ongoing diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe passage of remaining ships.
The Mumbai Water Metro project aims to introduce ferries to ease traffic congestion, marking a significant advancement in India’s water transport. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the state’s commitment to a sustainable system. A partnership with Norway’s Hyke AS will enhance infrastructure and develop advanced vessels, supporting the region’s growing transportation needs.
Following the launch of a ship-to-ship bunkering service at Vizhinjam International Seaport, the Kerala Maritime Board initiated operations using coastal barges. Recently, 120,000 liters of diesel were delivered to the detained Vietnam-flagged vessel MT Solis, marking a significant advancement in local fueling capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign ports.
The Maritime India Foundation has partnered with IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, and Indian Maritime University to establish Maritime Innovation Hubs under the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative. This collaboration aims to mentor 36 startups on 40 projects, addressing key challenges in the maritime sector and fostering technological advancements in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved an advanced Ship Repair Facility in Vadinar, Gujarat, with a ₹1,570 crore investment. This initiative aims to enhance India’s ship repair capabilities, create around 290 direct jobs, and support regional economic growth, aligning with Maritime India Vision 2030.
In a landmark decision, the Bombay High Court ordered the release of 50 seafarers stranded on detained vessels off Mumbai. The court condemned the ship owners for subjecting the crew to “dehumanizing” conditions, highlighting their survival on just 300 ml of water daily. Prioritizing human rights, the court emphasized the crew’s well-being over commercial interests.
The Bombay High Court expressed serious concerns for the safety of 50 Indian crew members stranded on three vessels in the Arabian Sea. The crew, stuck since February due to police intervention, reported dwindling food and water supplies. The court ordered state authorities to provide urgent assistance while addressing the ship owners’ abandonment.
