India, along with 62 other nations, voted in favor of a global carbon tax for the shipping industry by the International Maritime Organization. This decision, made in London, aims to reduce emissions and promote cleaner technologies. However, criticism has arisen for not addressing climate finance needs of developing countries.
India and UAE have entered a transformative phase in bilateral relations, signing eight strategic agreements to foster a sustainable, innovation-driven future. This milestone, marked by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed’s visit, emphasizes collaboration in green logistics, healthcare, and education, paving the way for a climate-resilient, tech-integrated trade ecosystem.
DP World’s Mundra International Container Terminal (MICT) saw significant growth in the fiscal year 2024-2025, handling 1,497,228 TEUS, a 13% increase from the previous year. Servicing 762 vessels, the terminal plays a crucial role in advancing India’s global trade network. DP World Mundra also reached its highest monthly volume in March 2025.
The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) is organizing a seminar on “Maritime Adversities” to enhance industry readiness and emergency response in maritime operations. With industry experts and policy-makers attending, the event will focus on crisis management techniques and collaborative efforts to address sea-bound challenges. NMPA aims to promote safety and secure maritime operations.
Docker Vision, an AI and Computer Vision startup, has secured a ₹1 Crore grant from USHUS, recognizing its innovative contributions to maritime digital transformation. Presented during the Terra Maris ceremony at Cochin Shipyard, the grant will enhance Docker Vision’s AI-powered OCR solutions, streamlining operations and supporting India’s maritime innovation goals.
The global maritime sector is shifting towards sustainability by exploring alternative fuels like methanol for heavy heating oil. Ports in India, such as the VOC port in Thoothukudi, are leading the way in developing green energy infrastructure. The Ministry of Shipping has designated key ports as hydrogen hubs to handle and supply methanol for ships.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) celebrated 50 years of excellence in the maritime industry with a Special Cover released by India Post. The event honored IRS’s role in promoting safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. Dignitaries such as Shyam Jagannathan and Capt B K Tyagi highlighted IRS’s contributions to the global maritime sector.
The development of hybrid and electric propulsion tugs in India showcases technological advancement and the country’s growing leadership in the global green maritime movement. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized this achievement aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and marks a significant step towards achieving it.
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, highlighted the government’s commitment to modernizing maritime education at an event in the Indian Maritime University (IMU) campus in Kochi. He laid the foundation stone for a girls’ hostel and virtually inaugurated infrastructure projects across six IMU campuses, enhancing educational facilities in the maritime sector.
The 12 major ports owned by the Indian government experienced a 4.34% increase in cargo handling in the fiscal year 2024-2025, totaling 854.858 million tonnes. Strong performances in containers, finished fertiliser, and miscellaneous cargo drove this growth, with Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority leading in container volumes.
India has bolstered its coastal safety with proactive measures from the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). Utilizing daily fleets of ships, crafts, and aircraft, the ICG conducts extensive surveillance and operations, including over 300,000 boardings to combat illegal activities. With significant investments, community programs, and a dedicated helpline, coastal security has strengthened remarkably.
Rajesh Unni, founder of Synergy Marine Group, was honored with the National Maritime Varuna Award, recognizing his significant contributions to India’s maritime sector. Unni emphasized the potential of Indian professionals in shaping the shipping industry’s future. His leadership at Synergy Marine Group reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation in maritime solutions.
The Deendayal Port Authority in Gujarat’s Kandla is set to undergo a massive infrastructure development project with over ₹57,000 crore investment. This initiative includes expanding cargo capacity, establishing a state-of-the-art shipbuilding ecosystem, and constructing a mega shipbuilding complex. The port aims to become a global hub for shipbuilding and green fuel innovation.
The High Commissioner of India to Singapore addressed maritime professionals at the 14th Reunion Reception of the DMET MERI Alumni, discussing India’s budget announcements and policy reforms in the maritime sector. Emphasizing the Maritime India Vision 2030 initiative, he encouraged alumni to contribute their expertise towards making India a global maritime leader through innovation and sustainable practices.
The 62nd National Maritime Day was celebrated by the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) on April 5 to recognize the importance of the maritime sector in global trade and national economic development. Seafarers were honored with the prestigious NMD award of excellence, highlighting their contributions to the Indian maritime industry.
