The second day of THE WEEK Maritime Conclave featured Neo Classic Cruise and Tours, led by Nishyijith K. John and Jithu Sukumaran Nair. They unveiled India’s first indigenously designed cruise ship, the ‘Ferrari of the Sea,’ showcasing its innovative engineering, luxury features, and ambitious plans for Kerala’s cruise tourism market.
The Union government has appointed M Angamuthu as the new Chairman of the Mumbai Port Authority. Currently leading the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, he replaces Rajiv Jalota following his retirement. This leadership transition is crucial as India’s major ports focus on capacity expansions and sustainability initiatives under the Maritime India Vision 2030.
Mundra Port, India’s largest commercial port, has exported advanced locomotives to Morebaya, Guinea, marking a milestone for Indian manufacturing in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The inaugural shipment of four locomotives, produced by Wabtec in Bihar, reflects India’s growing prowess in the global rail equipment market.
The Goa government plans to establish a maritime board to enhance collaboration between industry and government, streamlining maritime policies. Minister Subhash Phal Desai emphasized its role in promoting maritime tourism, developing coastal infrastructure, and supporting local communities, while prioritizing sustainable practices and green shipbuilding in the face of global environmental challenges.
Mormugao Port has achieved a major milestone by becoming India’s first accredited green port, announced by MPA Chairman N. Vinodkumar during a roadshow for India Maritime Week 2025. The port promotes sustainability through incentive-based tariff discounts linked to Environmental Ship Index scores and has initiated a solar power project to reduce its carbon footprint.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has transitioned its Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to 100% green energy, effective September 1, 2025. This shift to grid-connected wind power at Rs. 3.12/KWH emphasizes sustainability and cost-efficiency, positioning JNPA as a leader in India’s sustainable industrial development and inspiring similar initiatives nationwide.
The decision to develop Great Nicobar Island prioritizes ecological and social considerations, according to a Union Minister. The ambitious project includes an international container terminal, a new airport, and a power plant. While aiming for maritime connectivity, concerns about its impact on local ecosystems and tribal communities remain prominent.
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) secured a ₹4.4 crore consultancy contract from the Maharashtra government to develop the Detailed Project Report for Mumbai’s Water Metro, inspired by Kochi’s success. The project aims for a 250 km network across Mumbai’s waterways, boosting connectivity and enhancing KMRL’s consultancy revenue.
Navi Mumbai is set to transform its tourism landscape with the development of its first international marina in Belapur Sector 15. Spearheaded by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, this project aims to boost marine tourism, create jobs, and position the city as a key player in the global maritime industry.
The Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) has initiated a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for a 1,000 MWp solar power project along Gujarat’s coast. This competitive bidding seeks to enhance renewable energy capacity, with a 25-year power purchase agreement for the winning bidder. Compliance with environmental regulations is essential.
Zelim, a maritime safety technology firm, is urging global regulators to adopt enhanced safety measures following India’s mandate for CCTV on ships visiting its ports. This initiative, effective February 2028, aims to improve incident response and deter criminal activities, addressing growing concerns over crew and ship safety in the maritime industry.
Paradip Port Trust has announced a tender for the mechanization of its multipurpose berth in Odisha, under a 30-year BOT model. This public-private partnership project aims to enhance dry bulk cargo handling capacity to 8 million tonnes annually. With a ₹630.67 crore investment, it will significantly boost regional industrial activities.
Adani Vizhinjam Port Company has secured initial approval from the Customs and Central Excise Department to handle export-import cargo at Vizhinjam Port. Final clearance from Kochi Customs is expected soon. This approval marks Vizhinjam as a significant trade gateway, encouraging customs firms to establish a presence at the port.
Maharashtra’s Fisheries Department plans to invest ₹1,800 crore to acquire 15 electric tugboats, aiming to replace its aging diesel fleet. Each E-tug, costing ₹120-130 crore, aligns with PM Modi’s vision for sustainable port technology. The initiative includes leasing to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, highlighting significant demand across India.
India’s cabinet is set to discuss a relief package for exporters hit hard by significant US tariffs. Proposed measures include collateral-free loans and subsidized interest rates to alleviate liquidity issues. The package aims to counter the impact of the high tariffs, especially on labor-intensive sectors like textiles and jewelry.
