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.
Genevos has signed a letter of intent with India’s SSBI Group to develop large-scale hydrogen solutions for the maritime sector. The partnership aims to deploy over 50 hydrogen-powered vessels in India within a decade. CEO Rebecca Sharp emphasized the collaboration’s potential to transform global shipping through clean energy advancements.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) marked a significant milestone with the berthing of the MSC Ivana, a vessel reaching a draft of 16.35 meters. This achievement highlights JNPA’s capacity to handle ultra-large container vessels, demonstrating improved operational efficiency and bolstering India’s position as a global maritime hub.
India’s first green methanol bunkering and refuelling facility broke ground at VOC Port, by SOPAN Group and VOCPA. Inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the 750 m³ pilot terminal advances Net Zero 2070 and Maritime India Vision 2030 goals, promising up to 95% ship CO2 cuts and a maritime hub.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Japan’s second-largest shipping company, is exploring partnerships with Indian firms to locally manufacture tankers. This initiative supports India’s efforts to enhance domestic maritime manufacturing. The Indian government is modernizing maritime laws and investing heavily in shipbuilding to strengthen self-sufficiency in the sector by 2047.
The 14th edition of INMEX SMM India commenced at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai from September 10 to 12, 2025. Inaugurated by Minister Nitesh Rane, the event gathered global maritime experts to explore innovations and policies, with Maharashtra aiming to enhance its role as a leading maritime hub through strategic investments and policies.
Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane has directed officials to establish a single-window system for project approvals under the Maharashtra Maritime Board. This initiative aims to simplify the current process, which involves multiple departmental clearances. Rane also emphasized finalizing rental rates for stalls and expediting hoarding installations by November.
The Principal District and Sessions Court in Navsari sentenced Dineshbhai Babubhai Ganvit, a junior clerk at the Gujarat Maritime Board, to three years of rigorous imprisonment and a ₹10,000 fine for bribery. The case stemmed from Ganvit’s demand for a ₹5,000 bribe to issue a fishing permit, leading to his arrest.
India’s cruise tourism is evolving from luxury to accessibility, appealing to diverse age groups. With supportive policies and improved infrastructure, India aims for one million cruise passengers by 2029. Interest from Millennials and Gen Z is driving market growth, but challenges like port infrastructure need addressing for success in this sector.
Vizhinjam International Port has marked a milestone with the arrival of the MSC Virginia, a container ship measuring 16.95 meters in draft, the deepest at the harbor. This achievement, celebrated during the Onam Festival, demonstrates the port’s capability to handle large vessels, solidifying its status as a premier deep-water hub in India.
Haldia Dock Complex (HDC) celebrated a major milestone with the arrival of the MV SITC ZHI, the deepest-draft container ship ever handled at the port. This achievement showcases HDC’s enhanced capabilities and commitment to supporting global trade, reaffirming its position as a vital hub in India’s logistics network.
The Director General of Maritime Administration plans to blacklist 86 foreign ships linked to the abandonment of Indian seafarers. This move aims to address human rights issues and enforce compliance among Recruitment and Placement Services License holders, ensuring repatriation and wage settlement for affected seafarers, amidst rising concerns in the shipping industry.
Bhubaneswar: BJD President Naveen Patnaik attended the “Voyages: The Ancient Maritime Silk Route” exhibition in New Delhi, curated by Jaya Mani. The event highlights South Asia’s coastal heritage, with a focus on Odisha. Patnaik praised artists Suresh Muthukulam and Gunjan Jain for their contributions, celebrating the region’s rich maritime history.
Japanese shipping giant Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is partnering with Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to build and operate two very large ethane carriers (VLECs), ensuring stable feedstock supply for ONGC Petro Additions Ltd. (OPaL) in Dahej, Gujarat. Each carrier will cost approximately $370 million, with delivery expected by mid-2028.
Kongsberg Maritime has secured a contract to supply equipment for India’s first electric tug at Deendayal Port in Kandla. This project is a key milestone in India’s Green Tug Transition Programme, featuring advanced technologies like permanent magnet-driven thrusters and energy storage systems. The tug, designed by NavNautik India, will enhance maritime decarbonization efforts.
