The arrival of M.V. MSC FLORIANA VI, the largest vessel at Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal, on January 23, 2025, marked a milestone for DBGT. With a Length Overall of 285 meters, the ship showcased the terminal’s ability to handle big ships effortlessly. This success was a result of DBGT’s commitment to excellence in port operations.
In a significant development for India’s maritime sector, the DGS and C-DAC have signed an MoU to drive technological advancements. This collaboration aims to promote digitalisation, automation, cybersecurity, and research within the industry. Leveraging C-DAC’s expertise, the partnership seeks to modernize processes and establish India as a globally recognized maritime administration.
Kandla Port in India is a vital hub near major international trade routes, handling 132 million tons of freight annually. With a diverse cargo profile, the port focuses on liquid cargo, dry bulk, break bulk, and containerized freight. Infrastructure projects aim to boost container handling capacity, positioning Kandla Port as a key player in India’s trade industry.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd is constructing India’s largest floating dry dock at Nhava Island near Mumbai as part of a Rs 5,000 crore expansion plan. The 180-meter long dock, capable of accommodating vessels up to 12,800 tons, will enhance shipbuilding capacity, supporting large orders and simultaneous docking of eight ships.
Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC) recently celebrated the completion of a 90-day training program at Krishnapatnam Port, where 10 trainees from Tanzania joined 20 Indian students. CEO Jatin Trivedi praised the Tanzanian participants, highlighting ASDC’s commitment to empowering individuals globally. The program focuses on maritime skills, including RTG crane operations and HMV driving.
India is planning to establish a consortium for global port operations, with key stakeholders including Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation and Shipping Corporation of India. A new vertical, Bharat Container Shipping Line, will address global trade disruptions. This initiative follows the successful Chabahar port model and signifies India’s commitment to enhancing maritime connectivity.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that the Vadhvan port near Mumbai aims to position India among the top 10 container ports by 2034. Developed through a public-private partnership, the port will enhance cargo capacity and significantly contribute to GDP growth. Sonowal also discussed initiatives for green hydrogen hubs and domestic shipbuilding.
Until December 2024, VOC Port in Tuticorin saw a 7% rise in container volumes, handling 581,557 TEU compared to the previous year. With consistent growth and efficient operations, the port boasts fast turnaround times and plans for future expansion to accommodate increasing container traffic and enhance international trade connectivity.
The foundation stone for the Centre of Excellence building at the Indian Maritime University was laid by Dr. Malini V Shankar. The construction is set to be completed by July 2025, overseen by university officials and CPWD’s Chief Engineer. The center aims to promote research, training, and industry partnerships in the maritime sector.
India is gearing up to boost its maritime capacity significantly, aiming to expand port capacity to 10,000 million tonnes per annum by 2047. This ambitious initiative, announced by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, highlights India’s goal to become a global shipping hub. The move underscores the country’s commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities.
The Indian maritime sector is in need of a significant investment of $1 trillion by 2047 and ₹5 lakh crore by 2030 to reach its full potential. Green hydrogen production hubs are being established at key ports to decarbonize the shipping industry. India is set to become a major player in the global maritime market.
Dr. Pandurang Raut, Deputy Director General of Shipping, highlighted India’s coastal channels’ importance for trade, with up to 95% of volume and 68% by value passing through them. The Maritime Amritkal Vision 2046 aims at modernizing ports and leveraging the blue economy, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s maritime position on a global scale.
The Indian Coast Guard conducted a specialized training program for Narcotics Control Bureau officers and other Drug Law Enforcement Agencies at Paradip from January 20 to 22. The training focused on enhancing maritime interdiction skills, operational awareness, and collaboration to combat drug trafficking, emphasizing the need for a unified approach against maritime narcotics challenges.
The 3-day Maritime India Conference in Mumbai will focus on business opportunities in domestic ports and shipping. Organized by FICCI, it aims to attract 7,500 stakeholders from 11 countries. Discussions will cover smart technologies, sustainable practices, decarbonization, shifting trends, cruise industry growth, and shipbuilding advancements. Keynote speakers include Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated projects worth nearly Rs 2,000 crores to boost capacity at India’s largest port, JNP. With plans to reach 10 million TEUs by 2027, developments like solar-powered boats and new terminals aim to increase efficiency and safety. Partnerships and investments are driving infrastructure growth, aligning with the government’s vision.
