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The Directorate General of Shipping has established an expert committee to evaluate Collective Bargaining Agreements for Indian seafarers, focusing on wages and working conditions. Over 350,000 Indian seafarers represent a significant portion of the global workforce. The review aims to align CBAs with national and international standards, improving conditions overall.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced the theme for World Maritime Day 2025 as “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.” This theme highlights the importance of protecting and responsibly utilizing our oceans. The celebration on 25 September 2025 will emphasize the significance of promoting sustainable development in the maritime industry.
An Indian delegation led by Secretary T.K. Ramachandran of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways recently visited South Korea’s main shipyards to explore collaboration opportunities. India aims to strengthen its presence in the international shipbuilding industry and plans to add 1,000 commercial ships to its fleet over the next ten years.
The government is considering granting infrastructure status to the shipping industry to boost India’s shipbuilding and ownership rankings by 2047. This would allow shipping companies better access to funds for ship purchases from Indian shipyards, promoting growth in the industry. The move aligns with India’s goal to become a global leader in shipbuilding.
The Indian government is considering granting infrastructure status to the shipping industry, aiming to boost its global ranking in shipbuilding by 2047. This change would facilitate long-term financing for shipping companies, enhancing domestic ownership and supporting local shipyards, while leveling the competitive landscape against foreign firms with cheaper funding.
Christchurch companies Fabrum and King Watercraft have teamed up to develop the H2Ocean, a hydrogen-powered boat showcasing the potential of hydrogen technology in the marine industry. The zero-emissions solution is versatile for various activities, with sea trials set to begin in January 2025. This collaboration highlights their commitment to sustainable propulsion.
The Arctic region is undergoing drastic changes due to climate change, putting polar bears and narwhals in danger. Efforts are being made to establish a marine reserve at the North Pole to protect Arctic wildlife from industrial activities. The loss of Arctic ice is impacting the Earth’s albedo, contributing to further warming.
A recent incident on the Columbia River involving a tugboat colliding with a bulk liquid transportation pier highlighted the importance of proper vessel monitoring systems. The Coast Guard investigation revealed that the boat operator fell asleep at the wheel, causing significant damage. Recommendations have been issued to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Aqua Lectric, a US-based electric boating media company, has identified Europe as the “epicentre” of the industry, with close to one hundred electric boat companies worldwide. Europe’s focus on sustainability and climate action has propelled the region to lead in electric boating, with advancements in battery technologies and hull designs addressing challenges.
Ship building activity in coastal Karnataka has surged with UCSL launching the first of six 3800 TDW dry cargo vessels for Wilson ASA of Norway. Scheduled for delivery in February 2025, followed by five more vessels and eight 6300 TDW dry cargo vessels. UCSL also has orders for constructing Bollard Pull ASD tugs.
The Vizag International Cruise Terminal (ICT) in Visakhapatnam is set to open in March, costing Rs 96.05 crore. It can accommodate 2,000 passengers and has various facilities. Discussions with major cruise lines are ongoing. The Vizag Port also completed the Vizag International Cruise Terminal (VICT) to attract more ships and boost tourism in the region.
In 2024, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted India’s maritime achievements, calling it a pivotal year. He emphasized the country’s ambitions and progress, including the foundation of a new major port and opening global trade routes. Sonowal stressed the sector’s role in economic growth and urged citizens to contribute to India’s prosperity in 2025.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez has outlined key priorities for the organization in 2025, including a focus on seafarers, global security, and decarbonization. Improving safety and support for seafarers, reducing criminalization, and promoting diversity in the maritime sector are key areas of concern. Dominguez also emphasized the importance of gender representation.
The 2025 TU Delft Hydro Motion Team, consisting of 25 adult students, has developed a hydrofoiling boat powered by liquified hydrogen. Their focus on sustainable technologies led them to switch from solar power to compressed hydrogen in 2021. They hope to inspire the shipping industry to embrace greener practices.
The shipping industry is closely watching the shift towards dual-fuel engines in newbuildings, with methanol leading over ammonia in engine and regulatory development. Attention is now turning to retrofitting existing vessels, with companies like Maersk Halifax and Hapag-Lloyd opting for methanol. Ammonia’s carbon-free potential is also attracting interest, LNG remains the current market leader.
