India is set to enhance its shipping container manufacturing sector with a ₹10,000 crore investment over five years. This initiative, highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, aims to decrease dependency on imports and meet rising demand for containerized cargo. Industry experts suggest targeted support could bridge existing cost gaps.
The Union Budget for 2026 allocates ₹5,164.80 crore to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, a significant rise from last year’s ₹3,470.58 crore. Key allocations include ₹1,000 crore for the Maritime Development Fund, ₹515 crore for the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme, and ₹250 crore for capacity development initiatives.
On February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the 2026-27 Union Budget, highlighting significant advancements in the maritime sector. Key initiatives include establishing new freight corridors, operationalizing 20 waterways, and promoting indigenous seaplane manufacturing to enhance connectivity and boost tourism, while fostering environmentally sustainable cargo transportation.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has secured a contract from Polestar Maritime Limited to build two battery-electric harbour tugs for the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority. These tugs, each with a 60-tonne bollard pull, will support the Centre’s Green Tug Transition Programme, promoting greener maritime operations and zero emissions during port activities.
The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority has announced a special purpose vehicle to establish a shipbuilding cluster in Tuticorin, enhancing India’s maritime sector. This joint venture, named the National Shipbuilding & Heavy Industries Park, aims to boost domestic shipbuilding capabilities, aligning with the Union Cabinet’s vision for maritime infrastructure growth.
Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has made a significant sustainability achievement by implementing a Shore-to-Ship Power Supply System, becoming India’s second major port to do so. This system reduces emissions and promotes cleaner operations by supplying full-load power to docked vessels, aligning with global decarbonization efforts and enhancing environmental compliance.
The Indian government plans to introduce a new regulatory framework by early March, establishing the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA). This initiative aims to streamline oversight of the maritime sector, enhancing shipbuilding, port operations, and fleet management, aligning with India’s goal to strengthen its global shipping presence.
A high-level delegation from the UAE National Guard is visiting India to strengthen maritime security cooperation. Led by Brigadier Khalid Obaid Thani Al Shamsi, discussions with the Indian Coast Guard focus on training collaboration and operational enhancements in maritime safety, coastal security, and pollution response, emphasizing their strategic partnership.
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.
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