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Several marine insurance companies have been alerted by reinsurers about the cancellation of war risk coverage in the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea due to escalating security concerns. Skuld and West of England P&I are among those affected, with cancellations effective from August 16, 2026, impacting assureds operating in these regions.
India has launched the BMIP, a government-backed P&I insurance scheme, with its first policies issued in July 2026. Initially covering the Shipping Corporation of India, this scheme addresses critical insurance needs for Indian shipowners, mitigating reliance on international clubs and enhancing coverage against liabilities like crew injuries and pollution incidents.
The Vizhinjam port in Kerala has received approval for crew change operations for various vessels. The Kerala Maritime Board plans to upgrade facilities, including a lounge and facilitation center, to enhance crew experiences. These developments aim to accommodate increased activity and generate stable revenue, benefiting the local economy and hospitality sector.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has revised its oil supply and demand forecast due to renewed conflicts around the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting Gulf exports. Regional oil production increased but remains significantly below pre-war levels. Demand estimates have also declined, with global inventories plummeting and market stability threatened.
MSC Shipmanagement Limited has been fined $6 million and placed on probation for four years following the 2024 “runaway ship” incident of the MSC Michigan VII in Charleston. The chief engineer, Fernando San Diego San Juan, was fined $2,000 for failing to report hazards and obstructing an investigation.
Wirana Shipping has observed a positive shift in India’s ship recycling market, fueled by rising steel demand. Recent reports indicate increasing steel prices, with local plate prices up by $4/MT. While Bangladesh’s market struggles with sluggish demand and financing issues, optimism in India suggests potential for improved recycler prices ahead.
NAPA has launched a digital checklist system to enhance onboard operations, with HX Expeditions as an early adopter. This innovative tool replaces traditional checklists with dynamic workflows, ensuring correct procedural sequences. Each action is logged automatically, streamlining processes and improving real-time information sharing between ship and shore, boosting operational efficiency.
On Tuesday, India’s High Commissioner to Seychelles, Rohit Rathish, delivered five laser radial boats to the Chief of Defence Forces, fulfilling a promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his June visit. This initiative enhances the Seychelles Defence Force’s seamanship skills, reinforcing the maritime partnership between India and Seychelles.
A case study by Survitec and Brim Explorer highlights the critical role of marine evacuation systems (MES) in developing low-emission passenger vessels. Jan Eskil Hollen emphasizes safety and enhancing passenger experience. Innovative designs, like the Small Inflatable Slide, optimize space and efficiency, showcasing the importance of collaboration in vessel development.
The All India Seafarers Union has expressed alarm over rising C1/D visa rejections for Indian seafarers aiming to work on cruise ships. They reported an influx of inquiries from both new and experienced seafarers facing denials, warning that even one rejection can severely impact a seafarer’s career and future opportunities.
Coastal shipping in India is undergoing a transformative shift, propelled by new policies and infrastructural advancements. With an 11,098 km coastline, its potential is now being harnessed, demonstrated by a projected cargo increase from 119.5 million tonnes in FY15 to 213.5 million tonnes by FY26, thanks to the Coastal Shipping Act of 2025.
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has launched a new framework to improve seafarer education and certification, aligning with international standards. Effective October 2025, aspiring officers must complete updated diploma programs and gain qualifying sea service. This initiative aims to enhance maritime safety and professionalism in Nigeria.
Sasikumar highlighted the challenges large vessels face, noting the limited crew size makes continuous deck monitoring difficult. He raised concerns about rising fire incidents, particularly from lithium-ion batteries, which can escalate rapidly. Dtyle.AI’s edge devices provide timely fire detection, demonstrating effectiveness even in low bandwidth conditions during a recent pilot at Chennai Port.
The Government of India launched E-Samudra, a digital platform to modernize maritime governance, enhancing services for seafarers, shipping companies, and ports. Initiated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, it streamlines maritime processes with features like online payments and real-time tracking, emphasizing seafarer welfare and positioning India as a leading maritime player.
In a crucial diplomatic meeting, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to prevent attacks on commercial shipping. This appeal highlights India’s commitment to maritime security amid rising tensions, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding trade routes and the safety of its citizens abroad.
