Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced a 4,800 billion rupees investment to boost Assam’s waterways sector, aligning with PM Modi’s Viksit Bharat vision. Funds will go to green ships, cruise tourism, and infrastructure projects. Plans include a Water Metro service, electric catamarans, and a new cruise terminal in Guwahati.
As a third-generation boat builder from Goa, Dandekar embraced a challenge by reverting to ancient techniques. Armed only with a hammer, chisel, and coir rope, he endeavored to construct a stitched ship. Overcoming early challenges, his team crafted a vessel caulked with cotton and tree resin, ready to sail the seas.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders aims to boost its export share from 4% to 10% of its Rs 23,877 crore order book by investing in facilities. The company also anticipates significant growth in ship repair services and is exploring a new shipyard for commercial vessels. GRSE expects substantial bids for the P-17 Bravo class frigates.
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal discussed India’s ship-building potential at the 12th Biennial International Conference on Ports, Shipping & Logistics 2025. He emphasized the government’s efforts to promote the sector and the need for more flagged vessels. Goyal highlighted India’s port capacity expansion, reduced ship turnaround times, and the importance of enhancing the logistics ecosystem.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has formed a Shipbuilding Design Research Committee to support the shipbuilding industry. This panel, headed by the Additional Secretary, includes key officials from various departments and organizations. Their goal is to advise the government on creating a Shipbuilding Design and Research Centre and advancing the National Shipbuilding Mission.
DP World’s Mundra terminal recently welcomed the first call of the ME11/IMX service under the Gemini Cooperation, enhancing trade links between the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, and Europe. With 12 vessels and 16,000 TEU capacity, the service offers fast, flexible, and reliable ocean freight transportation, strengthening India’s trade ecosystem and boosting global connectivity.
Mandovi Drydocks and Ripley Stevedoring have joined forces to establish a shipbuilding and repair facility at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port. With an initial investment of Rs 200 crore, the joint venture will focus on building 6,000-8,000-ton ships, expanding to larger vessels in the future. This aligns with India’s efforts to develop its maritime industry.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, speaking at an Infrastructure Conclave in Delhi, reiterated India’s ambition to become a leading maritime power. He outlined plans to modernize port infrastructure, improve inland waterways, and enhance logistics. Under PM Modi’s leadership, initiatives like the Sagarmala Programme are set to transform the sector.
The ‘Vizag Cruiser’ is set to launch within the next one to two months, offering a unique sea-based cruise experience off the Visakhapatnam coast. With the MV Sai Vaishnavi cruise ship catering to various events and activities, tourists can expect packages ranging from early morning coffee to sunset tours and even scuba diving excursions.
India’s ports sector is set for remarkable growth, with an expected increase of 500-550 million tonnes in capacity from 2023 to 2028, driven by rising petroleum, coal, and container cargo handling. Ports handle 95% of India’s exports, underscoring their vital role in trade and economic development.
The Vietnamese-owned bulker Debi has been released by India’s High Court after a 15-month detention following a cocaine seizure. No charges were filed against the crew, facing immense hardships during this period. An out-of-court settlement allowed the vessel’s release, though it remained at port as of the latest reports.
The revival of the RS 7.056 Crore External Development Project in the VOC port in Thoothukudi is a significant step forward, attracting major players like Adani Ports and DP World. The need for this project arises from the increasing size of container ships, necessitating the development of an outer port to enhance efficiency and capacity.
During his visit to New Delhi, IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez praised India’s significant contributions to sustainable shipping and seafarer welfare. He emphasized maritime cooperation and discussed strategies for advancing the sector, highlighting India’s role in promoting green practices and innovations, crucial for a cleaner and more efficient global shipping industry.
The Calcutta High Court has demanded an affidavit from the Ministry of Environment and Forests regarding a controversial government notification proposing airport and port construction in ecologically sensitive Great Nicobar. A retired IAS officer’s PIL challenges the project, citing environmental risks and potential displacement of indigenous tribes. The court seeks clarification on environmental protection measures.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is launching a sustainable urban transport system using navigable waterways across 17 cities. Kochi Metro Rail Limited will assess the feasibility of the Water Metro model, enhancing multimodal connectivity. Green initiatives include electric catamarans and hydrogen fuel cell vessels, promising economic growth and tourism benefits.
