India’s inland waterways sector has reached a historic milestone, transporting 145.84 million metric tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25, positioning it among Asia’s most commercially active systems. Passenger traffic surged to 76 million journeys, driven by new services and urban demand. Ongoing investments and infrastructure improvements promise continued growth.
The Bombay High Court has raised the compensation for the family of Rajesh Deshmukh, a deceased maritime engineer, from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 1.31 crore. Justice Jitendra Jain criticized the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal for underestimating Deshmukh’s income, emphasizing the higher earnings in the offshore sector. The insurer must deposit the revised amount within 12 weeks.
India has successfully repatriated over 2,764 seafarers from the Gulf, with around 1.3 million passengers returning from West Asia since February 28. The government assures the safety of all Indian seafarers, reporting no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels. The Ministry of External Affairs is actively monitoring the situation for Indian nationals.
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Kolkata has achieved a landmark milestone with India’s first midstream container handling operation at Diamond Harbour. This innovative process enables the efficient transfer of export cargo from the Bengal-Bihar-Jharkhand region to global markets, improving logistics and enhancing the port’s competitiveness for large container vessels.
The inauguration of the new OTM Administrative Complex at Coast Guard District Headquarters No. 13 in Puducherry marks a major leap in India’s maritime security. Unveiled by DG Paramesh Sivamani, the facility enhances operational efficiency, featuring an advanced Operations Centre and Maritime Rescue Sub Centre for improved command and coordination in maritime challenges.
Recent shipping data indicates that maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped to historic lows due to rising military tensions. Despite this, an Indian-owned oil tanker successfully navigated the strait, highlighting the risks involved. Analysts warn that reduced vessel traffic threatens global energy supply stability and raises shipping costs.
India is contemplating a temporary transfer of its stake in Chabahar Port to an Iranian entity due to the upcoming expiration of a US sanctions waiver on April 26, 2026. The plan aims to safeguard India’s strategic interests while maintaining access to the port, crucial for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
HD Korea Shipbuilding and Offshore Engineering has signed a $4 billion MOU with Tamil Nadu and Sagarmala Finance Corporation to establish a greenfield shipyard in Thoothukudi. This marks the first foreign-owned shipyard in India, with a production capacity of 3.5 to 4 million tonnes, aimed at enhancing the local shipbuilding ecosystem.
The Indian government plans to launch dedicated vessel services on West Asia trade routes to address soaring logistics costs, which have surged by 60-80% since February’s Hormuz crisis. This initiative aims to enhance direct shipping between India and Gulf Cooperation Council markets, improving delivery reliability and reducing dependence on transshipment hubs.
India has confirmed the safety of 22 seafarers aboard two foreign-flagged ships targeted by Iran’s military in the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry of Ports reported that the Panama-flagged container ships Euphoria and Epaminondas, carrying Indian crew members, are safe. The government is coordinating evacuations and ensuring the welfare of all nationals in the region.
In a historic milestone for India’s maritime industry, the M.V. Sindhu has set sail as the first Indian-flagged vessel commanded by a female Master and Pilot. Captain Meera Uppadhaya and Pilot Ms. Reshma Nilofer Visalakshi’s leadership marks a significant step toward gender equality in maritime roles, inspiring future generations.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, highlighted the ‘MAHASAGAR’ initiative as pivotal for enhancing defense and maritime cooperation with Africa. This vision aims to strengthen ties through collaborative efforts in maritime security, trade, and capacity building, reflecting India’s commitment to bolstering strategic partnerships and addressing shared challenges like piracy and illegal fishing.
French shipping giant CMA CGM has made headlines by reflagging its fifth container vessel under the Indian registry, underscoring India’s growth as a maritime hub. This milestone enhances logistical efficiency, offering benefits like priority berthing and improved connectivity, aligning with India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and broader national infrastructural initiatives.
The Maharashtra Maritime Board has issued an RFP to select a project management consultant for the Mumbai Water Metro Phase 1, aimed at enhancing the city’s water transport. With an estimated cost of ₹1,621 crore, it will develop 16 routes and 26 terminals, expanding connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The Andhra Pradesh government is enhancing its maritime infrastructure by developing four new ports, including Ramayapatnam and Mulapeta. This initiative aims to boost port capacity from 110 million tonnes to 400 million tonnes. A ₹2,000 crore loan from Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd will support these significant projects, ensuring continued progress.
