Dockworkers in India are frustrated with the slow pace of wage and service reforms, leading to nationwide protests. The National Coordination Committee of Major Port & Dock Workers Federations organized demonstrations in support of unions. Despite a deadline of December 15, no action has been taken, prompting preparations for a nationwide strike.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the negative impact of longer ship routes on global trade, especially Indian exports. Despite efforts to address container shortages and production constraints, challenges persist in the industry. Goyal’s statements underscore the need for interventions to improve India’s container manufacturing capabilities and address delays in reaching foreign markets.
The government plans to offer three-year subsidies to cargo owners for transporting goods through inland waterways, aiming to increase freight movement in India from the current 2%. The proposal includes a 35% subsidy for river transport on specific national waterways, with an expected shift of 800 million tkm of cargo.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal reported a significant 48.65% decrease in average ship turnaround time at major Indian ports. This improvement is credited to enhanced efficiency, digitalization, and infrastructure development. Specific ports like Jawahar Lal Nehru Port saw turnaround times drop to just 26 hours.
Tamil Nadu is strategically positioning itself as a global manufacturing hub by expanding its maritime infrastructure. The opening of the Chennai-Vladivostok maritime corridor highlights the state’s commitment to developing its ports, with plans for a greenfield port at Cuddalore. This effort aims to boost exports and imports, utilizing coastal shipping to reduce transportation costs significantly.
The Central Government, along with the State Government of Goa, is developing Goa as a major cargo and cruise destination under the Sagarmala scheme. Projects include building an international and domestic cruise terminal, a ferry terminal, and enhancing inland transportation with coastal jetties. These efforts aim to boost the economy and local connectivity in the region.
During the Kerala Maritime Education Conference (KMEC 2024), State Minister of Ports V. N. Vasavan stressed the significance of the public-private partnership model in developing skilled professionals for the marine industry. He highlighted the need to enhance maritime colleges in Kerala through this approach, citing successful examples like Vizhinjam Port.
Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in India excelled in November 2024 by handling 596,844 TEUs of containers, reflecting a 15.23% increase from the previous year. The port managed a total of 4,738,978 TEU containers and 60.05 million tonnes of cargo from April to November 2024, displaying growth and operational excellence.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal has introduced the “Harit Sagar” Green Port Guidelines to reduce carbon intensity in major ports. The guidelines offer incentives for sustainability, such as discounts on berth fees for eco-friendly ships. State Pollution Control Boards monitor environmental compliance.
The government presented a bill in Lok Sabha on December 2 to revamp the maritime sector with the Coastal Shipping Act 2024. This legislation aims to boost traffic at key ports, enhance efficiency, and support domestic shipping companies. The bill proposes innovative measures to simplify regulations and promote coastal trade without the need for commercial licenses.
Italian policymakers, led by Minister Gigorgia Meloni, visited New Delhi and Mumbai to enhance maritime ties with India. The focus is on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, aiming to boost trade, defense, and the blue economy. Italy also seeks space cooperation with India and plans to collaborate on nuclear power systems.
The Government of India is investing Rs 1,010 crore in developing Brahmaputra and Barak rivers in Assam, focusing on infrastructure for inland waterways, tourism, and transportation. Projects include slipway construction, terminals, and a religious tourism circuit, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic growth. Maintenance dredging and operational measures will ensure safe navigation for vessels.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) will increase the number of ships docking at Vizhinjam International Port in 2025. The Dragon and Jade services will connect Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and Asia. Adani Ports plans to utilize the port for export containers, providing faster shipping to Europe. This collaboration will enhance trade opportunities and efficiency.
The recent NMSAR Board meeting in Kochi, Kerala, organized by the Indian Coast Guard, paved the way for the upcoming SAREX-24 exercise. Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh highlighted the ICG’s vital role in search and rescue operations. National SAR Awards were distributed, recognizing outstanding contributions to maritime safety.
An ongoing investigation is probing a sugar shipment from India meant for the Maldives but redirected to Sri Lanka. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade is scrutinizing the situation, with reports of halted exports to the Maldives and Sri Lanka suspending clearance. Invoices and export regulations violations have added complexity to the case.
