News items selected for weekly newsletter
In a landmark achievement, the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla has become the first major port in India to handle over 100 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2025-26. This milestone reflects not only operational efficiency but also showcases the port’s pivotal role in enhancing national trade and maritime innovation.
Germany’s maritime industry is pioneering sustainable shipping, establishing high environmental standards in global trade. By embracing alternative fuels like LNG and hydrogen, implementing shore power systems, and utilizing smart shipping technologies, German ports and companies are significantly reducing emissions. This commitment, supported by government policies, showcases a balanced approach to economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled a major initiative to enhance India’s shipping sector by developing local Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) capabilities. The move aims to modernize port infrastructure, reduce costs, generate jobs, and increase self-reliance, positioning India as a competitive force in the global maritime industry.
The 2022 sabotage of Baltic Sea gas pipelines underscored the vulnerability of maritime infrastructure, now seen as a strategic asset. The Joint Baltic Declaration on Security, signed on November 20, aims to enhance regional cooperation and military collaboration, emphasizing democratic values amid security threats, particularly from Russia.
A 1.3-kilometre mural depicting India’s maritime history, from the Indus Valley era to today, is being unveiled at Kochi Naval Base. Led by the Better Kochi Response Group, the project aims for a Guinness World Record and seeks to educate youth about India’s rich, globally recognized maritime legacy.
Ahead of President Putin’s December visit to India, Russian and Indian officials are discussing enhanced cooperation in shipbuilding. Russia aims to support India’s shipbuilding industry development, focusing on establishing bases in Mumbai and Chennai and promoting “green shipbuilding.” This partnership seeks to bolster India’s maritime capabilities and reduce foreign dependency.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s dedication to shaping the maritime future, emphasizing shipbuilding and international partnerships. At the Samudra Utkarsh Seminar 2025, he praised India’s capabilities, asserting that all naval ships are built locally. He urged collaboration to enhance maritime industry and voiced commitment to Prime Minister Modi’s vision of self-reliance.
The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has received approval for six new policies aimed at enhancing the maritime ecosystem in Gujarat. These regulations will focus on shipbuilding, land management, reclamation, and a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) for the Gulf of Khambhat, addressing critical maritime challenges in the region.
Shipping giant Maersk plans to resume navigation through the Red Sea via the Suez Canal as conditions improve, according to CEO Vincent Clerc. The company aims to partially restart transit in December, following disruptions from regional conflicts. Clerc remains optimistic about safety enhancements in the area, emphasizing crew safety.
Women from 19 Latin American countries gathered in Guayaquil, Ecuador, from November 17-19 for a workshop focused on enhancing gender-responsive maritime policies. Supported by the IMO’s Women in Maritime Gender Programme, discussions aimed to strengthen governance, increase women’s roles, and promote gender equality in the maritime sector, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 5.
Officer Lee Tae Young of South Korea was awarded the IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea for his heroic actions during the sinking of the Geum Seong No. 135 in November 2024. He saved 12 crew members, demonstrating remarkable courage and leadership, and received recognition at a ceremony in London.
South Korean shipbuilding leader HD Hyundai has marked a historic achievement by delivering its 5,000th vessel, a testament to its 50-year journey since the inaugural 260,000-ton supertanker Atlantic Baron in 1974. The latest delivery, the Philippine patrol vessel Diego Silang, underscores this remarkable milestone in the industry.
IDsure is thrilled to partner with the Bahamas Maritime Authority to introduce the world’s first fully digital and tamper-proof Seafarer Record Book. This innovative solution ensures secure, instant credential issuance for seafarers, revolutionizing maritime credentialing by enhancing trust and transparency while streamlining operations for shipowners and training institutions.
Korean researchers have achieved a milestone with the world’s first real-world verification of a Maritime Internet of Things (MIoT) communication network. This innovation enhances maritime safety and connectivity by enabling data exchange between sensors and devices on ships and ports, addressing critical challenges in maritime communications and continuous environmental monitoring.
Windward’s Remote Sensing Intelligence (RSI) technology combines satellite imagery, RF detection, and vessel-tracking analytics for enhanced maritime monitoring. Its ability to identify vessels not transmitting AIS signals is vital for maritime security, ensuring compliance with regulations. This innovative solution allows authorities to assess and respond to potential threats effectively.
