Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated a green hydrogen pilot plant at V O Chidambaranar Port in Tamil Nadu, promoting alternative fuels. The 750 m³ capacity plant aligns with the Coastal Green Shipping Corridor initiative, enhancing VOC Port as a central hub for green fuel bunkering and supporting sustainable livelihoods through the Sagarmala programme.
Union Shipping and Ports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that India’s port cargo volumes remain stable despite the US imposing a 50% tariff on Indian goods. He attributed this resilience to strong domestic consumption and new trade agreements. Major ports continue to efficiently manage cargo, reflecting robust growth strategies.
Germany’s Steelpaint is re-entering the Indian market after 16 years by introducing its Stelcatec corrosion-resistant coating at the Port of Chennai. Partnering with Kaptel Overseas, the trials will assess the performance of Stelcatec’s LPR primer and LTC topcoat on cranes, aimed at enhancing asset longevity and reducing maintenance costs in harsh environments.
The Indian government is establishing a ₹2,000-crore insurance fund to shield shipbuilders from buyer defaults, enhancing sustainability in the capital-intensive sector. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways collaborates with finance ministries to implement a buyer’s default insurance, aiming to secure shipyards from order cancellations and bolster the domestic industry.
India has achieved a major milestone in maritime infrastructure with the inauguration of Phase 2 at the Bharat Mumbai Container Terminal (BMCT). This expansion boosts capacity to 4.8 million TEUs, making it the largest standalone terminal in the country, enhancing cargo efficiency and trade competitiveness while fostering bilateral cooperation with Singapore.
Great Eastern Shipping Company Ltd. (GESCO) is set to enhance its fleet by acquiring a Kamsarmax dry bulk carrier of approximately 81,922 DWT, scheduled for Q3 FY 2026. This acquisition, fully funded through internal accruals, follows agreements for two secondhand vessels, expanding GESCO’s fleet to 41 vessels and 3.37 million DWT.
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, recorded a remarkable 16.02% increase in cargo throughput from April to August 2025, handling 28.236 million metric tonnes. The Haldia Dock Complex contributed significantly with 20.625 MMT, while the Kolkata Dock System saw a 24.35% rise, processing 7.611 MMT. Chairman Rathendra Raman praised the team’s commitment.
India’s shipping industry is rapidly modernizing, yet a critical skills gap threatens its global competitiveness. While infrastructure investments grow, the shortage of digitally fluent professionals hinders progress. Bridging this gap through upskilling initiatives is essential for leveraging advanced technologies, ensuring India can lead in the evolving logistics landscape.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) achieved a milestone with a record cargo movement of 145.84 million metric tonnes on National Waterways this year. Emphasizing the growing significance of inland water transport, Vice Chairman Sunil Kumar Singh noted its vital role in enhancing trade and economic integration, especially in the Northeast Region.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ) experienced a significant 16% year-on-year cargo volume increase in August 2025, reaching 41.9 million metric tons. This growth was driven by a 29% surge in container traffic, highlighting Mundra Port’s essential position in India’s trade dynamics and boosting the nation’s global supply chain connectivity.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will keynote the Global Maritime CEO Forum during India Maritime Week in Mumbai from October 27-31, 2025. The event aims to showcase India’s maritime strengths, attracting over 100,000 participants globally and reinforcing India’s leadership in the transforming maritime sector.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) recently celebrated its 76th anniversary, marking over seven decades of vital contributions to India’s maritime industry. Established in 1949, the DGS has shaped maritime policy, regulated shipping, and enhanced safety standards. Looking ahead, it aims to strengthen India’s maritime sector in line with future visions.
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI) has partnered with the Indian Maritime University (IMU) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance maritime education and skill development. This collaboration aims to prepare future professionals for India’s growing maritime sector, establishing specialized Centres of Excellence at both SDHI and IMU campuses.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India will host a roadshow in Guwahati on September 2, ahead of India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai. This event aims to unite policymakers and industry leaders to discuss the future of inland waterways, emphasizing river cruise tourism and urban water transport for sustainable growth.
Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) has partnered with Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) to create a Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Shipbuilding Technology, supported by a ₹3.53 crore investment. This initiative aims to bridge academia and industry, focusing on skills enhancement, software development, and advancing sustainable maritime technologies in India.
