Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, announced a significant update on the Vizhinjam Port project, extending its completion to December 2024. With plans to expand capacity to 30 lakh TEU by 2028, the project is crucial for Kerala’s economic growth. Stakeholders must meet deadlines to avoid financial penalties and fulfill the state’s vision.
BEML Ltd., a government-owned company, has partnered with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders to develop innovative technologies for the marine industry. The collaboration aims to enhance India’s maritime capabilities and drive innovation in strategic equipment manufacturing. BEML will provide technical support, while Mazagon Docks offer research facilities for testing and validation.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu envisions Andhra Pradesh as a Maritime Hub, emphasizing innovative policies, infrastructure development, and efficient governance. His 10-point formula for a proposed maritime policy focuses on port development, shipbuilding clusters, and allied maritime activities. Naidu aims to attract global investors, integrate tourism and green energy initiatives.
The winter session of Parliament has commenced with a focus on passing three vital shipping bills. The Merchant Shipping Bill aims to boost compliance with international treaties, the Coastal Shipping Bill looks to simplify operations for Indian-flagged vessels, and the Indian Ports Bill seeks to modernize port regulations for enhanced efficiency and cooperation.
The delegation led by Sato Goro-san from Toshiba Japan, along with representatives from Toshiba India and the LWT Group, met with Cmde Girdeep Singh at HSL. They discussed collaboration opportunities, technological advancements, and industry trends. The meeting laid the foundation for future partnerships and innovative solutions in the maritime sector.
On November 25, the Indian Coast Guard made history by intercepting the Myanmarese fishing boat “Soe Wai Yan Htoo” in the Andaman seas, uncovering 5500 kgs of Methamphetamine worth thousands of crores. This significant operation reflects the ICG’s commitment to maritime security and the fight against illegal drug trafficking.
During his radio programme, PM Modi emphasized the significance of Lothal in India’s maritime history. The National Maritime Heritage Complex is being constructed to showcase India’s rich seafaring heritage. He urged citizens to contribute to preserving historical documents and artifacts. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs and attract visitors globally.
The National Coordination Committee of six port and port workers’ associations protested in December over the slow implementation of a salary agreement by the Indian Ports Association. They threatened to strike on December 17 if the agreement was not executed, highlighting delays in negotiations and the failure to implement wage adjustments and pension benefits.
The Tamil Nadu Maritime Board is set to build a new port in Cuddalore with an estimated investment of ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 crore. The greenfield port will enhance cargo capacity to 13.5 million tonnes annually, with plans to expand to 40 million tonnes. This project aims to meet the region’s growing maritime needs.
India is aggressively working towards capturing a 10% share of the global shipbuilding market, a significant jump from their current 1%. With negotiations planned in South Korea, the aim is to attract major companies like Samsung to set up operations in India, creating job opportunities and boosting the economy.
Maersk has announced the transformation of its warehouse at the Container Freight Station in Ponneri, Chennai into a women-operated facility to celebrate the station’s 15th anniversary. By increasing female representation from 3% to 13%, Maersk is demonstrating its commitment to diversity and inclusion in traditionally male-dominated sectors like logistics.
The Indian Shipping Register (IRS) and the Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have successfully completed India’s first deep diving and underwater welding training program. This milestone initiative aims to develop a skilled workforce for maintaining subsea facilities, supporting critical oil, gas, and shipping infrastructure in India.
India is planning to overhaul its ship and ship ownership regulations to boost the shipbuilding industry and global presence. The proposed changes include allowing non-resident Indians to own ships, streamlining registration criteria, and enhancing seafarers’ rights. These amendments aim to increase Indian-flagged vessels, attract investments, and ensure safety and environmental protection in the maritime sector.
The West Bengal Government’s Transport Department signed a contract with GRSE Ltd. for thirteen hybrid ferries on the Hooghly River. These boats, made of aluminum and fiber reinforced polymers, will have hybrid-electric drive systems. Six ferries will carry 200 passengers, while seven will carry 100 passengers, all aiming to reduce environmental pollution.
In 2024-25, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority showcased its ability to handle large vessels like INS Vikrant and The World, setting new industry standards. Achievements included night-time berthing of M.V. Star Aspiration and berthing MV Huahine with a record draft. Infrastructure upgrades have solidified VPA’s position as a leading maritime hub in the region.
