High-level interagency consultations took place in New Delhi, led by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Nikolai Patrushev, aide to the Russian President. The talks emphasized the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia, covering shipbuilding, port development, and Arctic operations, aiming for enhanced cooperation and long-term prosperity.
The Inland Port project in Jalore, Rajasthan, connects to Kandla Port via a 262-kilometer waterway, enhancing local economy and ecology. Supported by a MoU signed during India Maritime Week 2025, it aims to create over 50,000 jobs, improve connectivity, and bolster trade while undergoing a detailed project report by IIT Madras.
At the G7 Foreign Ministers’ session in Canada, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to maritime security and prosperity. Highlighting the MAHASAGAR outlook and partnerships, he called for international cooperation to protect maritime infrastructure, combat threats like piracy, and uphold a rules-based maritime order under UNCLOS.
In a significant step to boost India’s maritime capabilities, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board. This partnership aims to enhance maritime infrastructure, develop a Greenfield shipyard, and promote indigenous manufacturing, aligning with the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
India and South Korea plan to deepen shipbuilding cooperation, merging Korea’s advanced technology with India’s manufacturing strengths. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the need to boost Indian-flagged vessels for energy imports. Recent Indian maritime reforms and industry incentives aim to position India as a major global shipbuilding and maritime hub.
The Kerala government has announced a 35-year revenue waiver for Azhikkal Port’s development in Kannur. This initiative, part of the Sagarmala Programme, aims to transform the port into a significant greenfield facility. With an investment of Rs 3,000 crore, the project seeks to attract private partners and enhance financial viability.
During a recent visit, Jitin Prasada, the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, highlighted the significance of Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL). Cmde Girideep Singh outlined HSL’s capabilities in shipbuilding and repairs, emphasizing green-energy technologies and its role in the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, enhancing India’s maritime self-reliance.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated 16 infrastructure projects and 113 CSR initiatives worth ₹1,500 crore during the New Mangalore Port Authority’s golden jubilee. This investment aligns with India’s Maritime Vision 2030 and aims to enhance maritime infrastructure. The NMPA, managing over 46 million tonnes of cargo annually, plans to double this capacity by 2047.
HD Hyundai has partnered with the Government of India to support the “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,” enhancing shipbuilding capabilities. Recent discussions between Chairman Chung Ki-sun and Minister Hardeep Singh Puri focused on collaboration in ship design and fleet expansion. The partnership aims to modernize India’s maritime infrastructure with significant investments.
During Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi’s visit to the U.S. from November 12-17, India and the United States will review their robust defense partnership. Discussions will focus on enhancing maritime cooperation, operational linkages, and upcoming exercises like Milan. The visit underscores the commitment to a free Indo-Pacific amid growing regional military activity.
At the G7 meeting in Canada, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar presented a vision for maritime security, emphasizing the Indo-Pacific region’s importance. He advocated for port-led development and international cooperation, addressing challenges like piracy and illegal fishing. Jaishankar affirmed India’s commitment to a rules-based maritime order under UNCLOS.
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati addressed the Bali Yatra festival in Cuttack, calling it the “Mirror of Odisha’s Soul.” He urged the youth to embrace technology and innovation, reviving the spirit of ancient maritime traders. Kambhampati emphasized that the seas unite civilizations, celebrating both prosperity and ethics in Odia culture.
The Indian government’s new strategy to transform the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) into a strategic state carrier marks a departure from previous privatization efforts. With plans to enhance fleet capacity and partnerships through a Maritime Development Fund, the initiative aims to address declining profits and bolster India’s maritime needs.
The Mahanadi River came alive as Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the Mahanadi Boita Race 2025, celebrating Odisha’s maritime heritage. This vibrant event honors the ancient Sadhabas, featuring a competitive boat race with 15 teams. Parida highlighted the race as a tribute to Odisha’s rich history and future.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will inaugurate the revamped MMCT 2.0 campus of Mangalore Marine College on November 13. As Karnataka’s only marine college recognized by the Directorate General of Shipping, it offers advanced training facilities, including a Ship-in-Campus module and state-of-the-art simulators, to prepare students for maritime careers.
