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Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, the oldest operational Major Port in India, received the Maritime Excellence Award in the Heritage Category during India Maritime Week 2025. This honor acknowledges SMPK’s vital contributions to maritime development and its rich cultural history, despite challenges like a shallow navigation channel along the River Hooghly.
The V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority received the ‘Green Visionary Award’ at India Maritime Week 2025, acknowledging its commitment to environmental sustainability and port decarbonization. Chairman Susanta Kumar Purohit and Deputy Chairman Rajesh Soundrarajan accepted the award, highlighting innovative initiatives that set new standards for green transformation among Indian ports.
The Andhra Pradesh government has formed Port Proximal Area Development Authorities (PPADAs) for each seaport to enhance infrastructure and coordinate development around coastal hubs. Chaired by the APMB Chairman, these authorities will create master plans for a 10-kilometre zone inland, ensuring cohesive coastal development aligned with the APMB Act, 2018.
The latest Seafarers Happiness Index from The Mission to Seafarers shows a notable decline in seafarer happiness, dropping to 7.05 out of 10. Contributing factors include worsening wages, health concerns, and training opportunities. Crew interactions have also diminished, while improved digital connectivity offers a glimmer of hope amid ongoing challenges.
The Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding, Drydocks World, and Cochin Shipyard Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop a skilled maritime workforce in India. This initiative, formalized during India Maritime Week 2025, aims to position India as a global leader in shipbuilding and repair training.
During India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority announced ₹39,216 crore in investment agreements, showcasing India’s maritime ambitions with delegates from over 100 countries. Key initiatives include a MoU with Andhra Pradesh for a port-cum-shipbuilding cluster and partnerships to enhance multimodal logistics and eco-friendly technologies.
A.P. Moller – Maersk has revealed ambitious plans at India Maritime Week 2025 to boost India’s maritime sector, including a $2 billion investment in port expansion with APM Terminals Pipavav. New initiatives will enhance local partnerships, improve port infrastructure, and foster maritime talent development, reinforcing Maersk’s commitment to India’s economic growth.
India hosted the inaugural Quad Ports of the Future Conference in Mumbai, bringing together 120 delegates from 24 Indo-Pacific nations. Focused on resilient port development, discussions emphasized infrastructure, cybersecurity, and sustainability. Prime Minister Modi highlighted India’s strategic geography and invited global investors, reaffirming its commitment to a digitally advanced maritime ecosystem.
During the India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding was signed to operationalize National Waterway–5 and National Waterway–64 in Odisha. This agreement aims to invest ₹12,200 crore in enhancing inland water transport, facilitating coal movement, reducing logistics costs, and supporting sustainable development in the region.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government is significantly enhancing the maritime economy by increasing port capacity and advancing shipbuilding. During India Maritime Week, over 600 MOUs worth more than Rs 12 lakh crore were signed, focusing on sustainable shipping and technology, aiming to create jobs and boost the sector.
Odisha has been awarded the Best Stall Award at India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, presented by Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The stall, themed “Odisha – Voyage of Heritage and Hope,” showcased the state’s maritime history and modern advancements, highlighting its commitment to blending heritage with innovation for a sustainable maritime future.
The A&N Administration is showcasing its transformative initiatives at India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, highlighting projects aimed at making the Andaman & Nicobar Islands a maritime and tourism hub. Key features include advancements in port infrastructure, eco-friendly tourism, and sustainable marine practices, attracting significant interest from diverse stakeholders.
The Neoliner Origin, the world’s largest cargo sailboat, completed its inaugural transatlantic voyage on October 30. Despite sustaining damage to its aft sail during a storm, the vessel successfully docked in Baltimore after stopping in Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Designed to significantly reduce emissions, it carries 5,300 tonnes of cargo.
Indian seafarers face numerous challenges at sea, prompting the Directorate General of Shipping to launch the Sagar Mein Yog initiative. This program integrates yoga and mindfulness into their routines, promoting physical and mental wellness. Aimed at enhancing resilience, it aligns with India’s goal to supply 20% of the world’s seafarers by 2030.
During India Maritime Week 2025, the Directorate General of Shipping met with A.P. Moller – Maersk Group to enhance collaboration on offshore safety, maritime security, and seafarer welfare. They emphasized improving safety frameworks, crew conditions, and adopting best practices, reinforcing their commitment to a sustainable and secure maritime ecosystem.
