India and Singapore are poised to sign a Letter of Intent (LoI) to create a green digital shipping corridor (GDSC) to enhance the integration of India’s marine sector into global trade networks. This agreement is expected during Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal’s upcoming visit to Singapore for the Maritime Week.
The Indian Coast Guard has saved over 11,700 lives at sea since its inception, with 4,000 search and rescue missions. The parliamentary panel on defence, chaired by BJP MP Radha Mohan Singh, presented these findings in Parliament. The Coast Guard’s vital role in maritime security was highlighted, along with its various operational activities and successful missions.
India’s strategic location, capabilities, and expertise position it as a potential regional hub for maritime maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam plays a key role in this transformation, showcasing profitability and growth potential in servicing vessels between the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges participated in a recent economic mission to India, reinforcing its role as a vital trading partner. With a 10% growth in trade last year, the port seeks sustainable collaborations, particularly in renewable energy, and has established a Memorandum of Understanding with Green H2 India to advance hydrogen technology.
Andhra Pradesh is making significant investments in four new greenfield ports to boost its presence in India’s maritime sector. With a budget allocation of Rs 400 crore, the state aims to unlock a $20 billion blue economy by 2035. These ports will create over 75,000 jobs and enhance the state’s maritime infrastructure.
India is poised to invest ₹2 trillion in its maritime sector to drive growth and transformation. Plans include expanding shipbuilding capacity, improving port infrastructure, and promoting sustainability. Collaborative efforts between central and state governments, policy reforms, and skill development programs are key to this ambitious roadmap.
The Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Saksham, an offshore patrol vessel, recently visited Port Victoria, Seychelles, to bolster maritime cooperation and regional partnerships. The crew engaged in meetings, training exercises, and sports events with Seychelles counterparts to enhance interoperability and mutual learning. The visit underscores India’s commitment to maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Mauritius was a significant step in strengthening regional ties, particularly in the maritime sector and broader South Asian cooperation. PM Modi unveiled a new strategic framework called MAHASAGAR, focusing on trade, capacity building, and mutual security. Eight MoUs were signed to enhance cooperation in various sectors.
Maharashtra’s Finance Minister Ajit Pawar announced that Vadhvan port in Palghar will be operational by 2030, alongside plans for a third Mumbai airport and a bullet train station. The state budget aims for Rs 40 lakh crore in investments and 50 lakh jobs, positioning Maharashtra as a key industrial hub.
The Vizhinjam International Seaport has received approval for its next phases, aiming for completion by 2028, boosting maritime trade and industrial growth in Kerala. Developed by Adani Group, the port’s advanced technology and connectivity make it a key player in global trade, with a handling capacity of 30 lakh teus.
The recent acquisition of the International Maritime Institute by Hong Kong-based Caravel Group Acquire aims to enhance maritime training in India and provide more opportunities for Indian seamen. With India being a key player in the global seafaring industry, this move aligns with Caravel Group’s goal of expanding its presence in India.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways in India aims to boost the maritime sector with projects worth ₹2 trillion. By 2025, 150 projects will be completed to make India a top 5 shipbuilding nation by 2047. Green initiatives, infrastructure development, and innovation programs are key priorities to enhance sustainability and efficiency in the industry.
The Indian Coast Guard and Directorate for Revenue Intelligence intercepted a ship bound for the Maldives smuggling 29.954 kg of hashish oil worth Rs. 33 crore. Three individuals were arrested. The operation involved a tractor transporting rock blocks from Tuticorin port, where hashish oil was transferred to a load barge at sea.
Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid of Belgium, representing His Majesty the King, visited the JNPA-APEC Training Centre with a delegation to strengthen maritime cooperation between India and Belgium. The visit included a briefing on the port’s infrastructure and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a port-focused training institute in India.
India’s Shipping Ministry aims to complete 150 projects by September 2025, focusing on shipbuilding, green shipping, and digital solutions for maritime infrastructure to unlock the Blue Economy’s potential. Minister Sonowal reviewed ongoing projects worth USD 2 trillion, setting targets to consult experts and achieve goals outlined in the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
