The recently delivered electric catamaran ferry “Earth” or “Wave” by GRSE to the Ministry of Transport in West Bengal, India, offers a sustainable and comfortable travel option for up to 150 passengers. Powered by a 246 kWh battery, this vessel boasts modern design and eco-conscious features, exemplifying a shift towards cleaner maritime transportation.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) celebrates 75 years of service to India’s maritime sector, promoting safety and governance. To commemorate this milestone, a special logo featuring ’75’, DGS’s emblem, and a wave motif has been unveiled, symbolizing excellence and the extensive maritime domain overseen by the DGS.
The installation of a new pontoon at the Mumbai Port is set to streamline passenger loading and unloading processes, improving efficiency and safety. The upcoming passenger screening software will further enhance security measures, ensuring only authorized individuals access the piers. These initiatives mark a significant step in modernizing operations at the port.
The keel-laying ceremony for a new training ship for the Indian Coast Guard was held at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai. The ship, equipped with advanced facilities and technology, aims to provide high-quality training at sea for under-trainee officers. This project underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production and maritime security.
AMET University celebrated its 14th Convocation on January 4, 2025, honoring Capt. Thanuvelil Koshy Joseph with an Honorary Doctorate for his contributions to maritime education. Capt. Joseph’s leadership at Training Ship Rajendra and LBS College has shaped the careers of many maritime professionals. The event highlighted AMET’s role in nurturing future maritime leaders.
Adani Gangavaram Port, a leading port in India, was honored with the “Environmental Excellence Champion Award” for its dedication to sustainability and environmental protection. The port’s innovative initiatives and collaboration with local communities highlight its commitment to responsible infrastructure growth. This recognition reinforces its mission to balance growth with environmental preservation.
The Andaman and Nicobar Police are destroying over 6000 kilograms of Methamphetamine, worth Rs 36,000 crore, in the largest maritime drug seizure in India. The drugs are being incinerated in a crematorium furnace in Sri Vijaya Puram under the supervision of the Director General of Police. The swift action was commended for minimizing pollution.
India is making strides towards transitioning its entire waterways shipping to renewable energy in five years, aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2070. With plans for green energy vessels and hydrogen hubs, the country is committed to sustainability in the maritime sector and reducing its environmental impact.
India’s National e-Governance Division (NeGD) has partnered with the Indian Ports Association (IPA) to revolutionize the maritime sector through digital transformation. By integrating technology with industry expertise, the initiative aims to modernize operations, enhance efficiency, and streamline logistics, aligning with the goal of making India a leader in maritime digital advancements.
The cultural extravaganza “Bharat and Bharatiyata” showcased India’s rich heritage through folk and classical dances, tracing the country’s history from ancient civilizations to modern times. With dynamic performances on a giant ship, the show highlighted India’s spiritual and material contributions to the world, captivating the audience with diverse traditions and vibrant storytelling.
The Vizhinjam Conclave 2025, scheduled for January 28 and 29 at the Hyatt Regency in Thiruvananthapuram, aims to explore industrial opportunities linked to the Vizhinjam International Seaport. With over 300 delegates and 50 investors expected to attend, the event will focus on signing at least 20 MoUs to boost economic growth in the region.
The Andaman & Nicobar Administration is collaborating with the National Maritime Heritage Complex in Gujarat to develop a coastal Union Territory Pavilion. This initiative aims to showcase India’s rich maritime history through artefacts, exhibits, and traditional practices. Contributions are welcome to enrich the Pavilion and promote a deeper understanding of the country’s maritime heritage.
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.
