On January 27, Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, visited Chennai Port to review operations and development aligned with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. He inaugurated infrastructure projects totaling ₹54.27 crore, aiming to enhance coastal connectivity and modernize port facilities for improved efficiency.
On Tuesday, India and the European Union formalized a Security and Defence Partnership, marking a significant step in their bilateral relations. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized shared democratic values, while EU’s Kaja Kallas hailed the agreement as a “milestone” for enhanced cooperation in maritime security, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism.
Maharashtra is revolutionizing ferry services with digital ticketing on over 35 routes, launched by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on September 30, 2025. This initiative, in partnership with Billeasy, simplifies the ticketing process via WhatsApp, enhancing public transport accessibility and efficiency while minimizing queues for commuters.
The Global Maritime Forum has joined the Green Ports and Shipping Network, launched to promote low- and zero-carbon marine fuels in India. Introduced at the 3rd Green Hydrogen India Symposium, this initiative unites stakeholders in developing strategies for green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol, aiming to enhance India’s maritime energy transition.
The 8th India Boat & Marine Show (IBMS), happening January 29-31 in Kochi, highlights the rise of electric propulsion in India’s maritime industry. With 65 exhibitors showcasing innovations, including electric ferries and marine technologies, the event emphasizes sustainability and positions Kochi as a hub for electric watercraft advancements.
India is set to reclaim its maritime dominance through the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, as stated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. At the Vizhinjam Port ceremony, he highlighted the sector’s potential to attract over ₹80 lakh crore in investments and create 1.5 crore jobs, positioning India for renewed maritime leadership.
Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Karan Adani inaugurated the second phase of the Vizhinjam Port expansion, a ₹16,000 crore project aimed at enhancing maritime capacity. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal attended, highlighting bipartisan support. Vizhinjam, already India’s fastest port to process one million TEUs, aspires to become a leading transshipment hub.
The PRANAAM Seafarers Assistance Counter was inaugurated at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on January 21, 2026. This initiative enhances support for Indian seafarers, offering guidance and assistance as they travel. The event highlighted international cooperation in improving seafarers’ travel experiences and showcased India’s maritime heritage. Expansion plans for Terminal 2 are underway.
Great Eastern Shipping Company (GE Shipping) has delivered its Kamsarmax dry bulk carrier, Jag Aarati, to new owners, following a sale agreement finalized in FY26’s third quarter. With this transaction, GE Shipping’s fleet now consists of 39 vessels, including 26 tankers and 13 dry bulk carriers, totaling 3.14 million dwt.
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries (SDHI) has achieved a significant milestone by securing its first contract for six IMO Type II chemical tankers, valued at $227 million. This landmark order from Rederiet Stenersen AS marks a pivotal moment for India’s shipbuilding sector, showcasing the nation’s growing capabilities in maritime construction.
Mumbai’s Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has acquired a 41.73% equity stake in Sri Lanka’s Colombo Dockyard PLC, marking a key step in its international expansion. The acquisition, involving rights shares from Japan’s Onomichi Dockyard, triggers a mandatory offer for CDPLC’s shareholders, enhancing maritime collaboration between India and Sri Lanka.
The recent turnaround of Celebrity Millennium at Mumbai’s Ballard Pier underscores the city’s ability to meet global cruise standards while retaining its local charm. With 2,062 guests onboard, this event demonstrated Mumbai’s capacity for high-volume cruise operations, enhancing hospitality and efficiency, and signaling potential for future lucrative itineraries in the Arabian Sea.
India’s Embassy in Iran has voiced concerns over the lack of consular access to the crew of the Valiant Roar, a tanker seized on smuggling charges. Families of the 16 Indian crew members have appealed to Prime Minister Modi, as authorities strive for legal representation and basic provisions for the crew.
The vessel boasts advanced pollution response technology for effective oil spill management. It features an oil recovery system, radar for slick detection, and dedicated booms for diverse operations. With a recovery rate of 300 tons per hour, it ensures rapid and efficient response, safeguarding fragile marine environments against pollution threats.
As India nears its centenary of independence, the Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2047 aims to elevate the nation to a “Global Maritime Hub.” By leveraging technology like Digital Twins, IoT, AI, and Blockchain, India seeks to enhance efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and embrace sustainability in global trade operations.
