Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has unveiled ambitious plans for capacity expansion at Kandla Port, with investments exceeding Rs 57,000 crore. This includes a new mega shipbuilding project worth Rs 30,000 crores and a cargo terminal outside Kandla Creek costing Rs 27,000 crores, aimed at boosting the port’s capacity by an additional 135 MTPA.
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has introduced Asia’s largest Shallow Wave Basin Research Facility at the ‘Discovery’ Satellite Campus in Thaiyur. This cutting-edge facility will revolutionize coastal and marine engineering research in India, focusing on critical issues in ports, waterways, and coastal infrastructure. This facility is supported by the Ministry of Shipping.
The development of National Waterway (NW)-2 on the Brahmaputra River and NW-16 on the Barak River is underway, with a significant budget allocated by the central government. Key components include terminal construction, access road expansion, and fairway development. Progress stands at 71.23% for NW-2 and 16.39% for NW-16, aiming to improve connectivity and trade in Assam.
Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) recently unveiled two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), Amulya and Akshay, designed and built in-house for the Indian Coast Guard. The launch ceremony marked a significant milestone in GSL’s journey towards excellence in technology and operations, supporting the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ in defence production.
An Indian delegation led by Secretary T.K. Ramachandran of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways recently visited South Korea’s main shipyards to explore collaboration opportunities. India aims to strengthen its presence in the international shipbuilding industry and plans to add 1,000 commercial ships to its fleet over the next ten years.
Gujarat Maritime University in Gandhinagar is hosting a 3-day Certificate Course on Dispute Resolution Mechanisms for Settling International Trade Disputes from January 10th to 12th, 2025. This course aims to provide insights into arbitration, mediation, and negotiation strategies for addressing cross-border trade disputes. The hybrid course offers practical training and a Certificate of Participation.
The government is considering granting infrastructure status to the shipping industry to boost India’s shipbuilding and ownership rankings by 2047. This would allow shipping companies better access to funds for ship purchases from Indian shipyards, promoting growth in the industry. The move aligns with India’s goal to become a global leader in shipbuilding.
The Indian government is considering granting infrastructure status to the shipping industry, aiming to boost its global ranking in shipbuilding by 2047. This change would facilitate long-term financing for shipping companies, enhancing domestic ownership and supporting local shipyards, while leveling the competitive landscape against foreign firms with cheaper funding.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has awarded Cochin Shipyard in India a contract to build eight harbour tugs, slated for delivery by May 2028. These tugs will improve vessel operations in Indian ports. With a total of 13 tugs in the pipeline, APSEZ emphasizes its commitment to enhancing maritime infrastructure and port efficiency.
The Orissa High Court initially ordered the arrest of MV Propel Fortune due to a monetary dispute with ship chandler MH Bland SL at Paradip Port. However, the court later decided to release the vessel upon submission of a bank draft of Rs 15.56 lakh. This resolution marked the end of the legal battle.
Ship building activity in coastal Karnataka has surged with UCSL launching the first of six 3800 TDW dry cargo vessels for Wilson ASA of Norway. Scheduled for delivery in February 2025, followed by five more vessels and eight 6300 TDW dry cargo vessels. UCSL also has orders for constructing Bollard Pull ASD tugs.
The Vizag International Cruise Terminal (ICT) in Visakhapatnam is set to open in March, costing Rs 96.05 crore. It can accommodate 2,000 passengers and has various facilities. Discussions with major cruise lines are ongoing. The Vizag Port also completed the Vizag International Cruise Terminal (VICT) to attract more ships and boost tourism in the region.
In 2024, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted India’s maritime achievements, calling it a pivotal year. He emphasized the country’s ambitions and progress, including the foundation of a new major port and opening global trade routes. Sonowal stressed the sector’s role in economic growth and urged citizens to contribute to India’s prosperity in 2025.
The CSB 8005 vessel of the Vietnam Coast Guard completed a successful mission with the Indian Coast Guard in Kochi, India. The trip aimed to strengthen cooperation in maritime law enforcement, with training in search and rescue, firefighting, and oil spill response. Despite challenges, the mission was a historic milestone in deepening maritime cooperation.
In a groundbreaking ruling, a court in India has sentenced eight Pakistani nationals to 20 years in prison for smuggling 232 kg of heroin. The judge emphasized the severity of the offense and rejected pleas for leniency. This case highlights the collaborative efforts to combat drug trafficking and uphold maritime jurisdiction.
