Since its launch in May 2023, India’s Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP) has swiftly issued over 3,000 cargo-war insurance policies, enhancing domestic maritime insurance capabilities. With an underwriting capacity of approximately Rs 13,906.5 crore, the BMIP aims to reduce reliance on foreign insurers, supporting Indian shipowners and businesses reliant on maritime trade.
India strongly condemned the attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers during the Gulf conflict at the UN General Assembly, calling such actions “simply unacceptable.” The External Affairs Minister urged all parties to exercise restraint, emphasizing the need to protect civilians and ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy and commerce.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has officially designated four ports as India’s first “mega ports” under the Indian Ports Act, 2025: Mundra, Deendayal, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Paradip. This classification prioritizes performance, notably high cargo volumes, indicating a strategic shift in India’s maritime infrastructure focus.
The recently launched “Group of Friends on Safety & Security of Shipping & Seafarers,” co-chaired by India and Liberia, aims to enhance maritime safety. With representatives from 25 countries, the coalition seeks to combat piracy, protect commercial routes, and prioritize seafarers’ welfare in response to rising threats against global shipping.
The establishment of a Seafarers’ Welfare Centre at Mormugao Port has received official approval, backed by Rs 13 crore from the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society. This initiative aims to enhance support for maritime professionals and includes proposals for a Seamen’s Club, improving facilities and education in the maritime sector.
U.S. and Iranian negotiators in New York are exploring a phased approach to resolve ongoing tensions, focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting sanctions. While Iran seeks economic relief, the U.S. insists on unrestricted vessel passage. Both sides face challenges in yielding leverage, with military tensions escalating.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has reached a milestone by delivering India’s first passenger vessel powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the catamaran ferry FCV Pilot-01. Currently operational on the Ganges River, it features innovative technology, with a length of 24.8 meters, ensuring efficient and eco-friendly transportation on India’s waterways.
The International Maritime Organization’s Secretary-General has declared it illegal for nations to impose fees on vessels in international straits. This statement arises as Iran proposes tolls for ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil supply, raising concerns about maritime law and regional stability.
The maritime transport sector is undergoing an energy transition with diverse fuel alternatives. Companies like A.P. Moller-Maersk and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines are implementing varied strategies to adapt. Maersk focuses on methanol and liquefied gas, while MOL explores LNG and biofuels, aiming for scalable zero-emission solutions by 2030.
Eighty countries condemned Iran and its Houthi allies for attacks threatening international trade and energy security, calling for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Bahrain’s Foreign Minister highlighted the dangers posed by escalating conflicts, emphasizing a united front to protect maritime security and ensure stability in the region.
Five years post-implementation of the Seafarers’ Rights Code, over 1,000 shipping companies engage in RightShip’s Crew Welfare Self-Assessment, reflecting progress. Nonetheless, many seafarers still face inadequate conditions, including wage delays and insufficient crew numbers. Urgent action is needed to enhance mental health support and integrate welfare into operational decisions for sustainable improvement.
During the Philippine Maritime Convention 2026, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Filipino seafarers, highlighting the significance of Republic Act 12021. He emphasized the need for enhanced protections amid rising security threats, including recent tragedies at sea, and called for collaboration to safeguard the rights and welfare of mariners.
ABS and Lomar Labs have established a Master Research Collaboration Agreement to promote innovative technologies in the maritime sector. This partnership aims to reduce emissions and enhance fuel efficiency by supporting startups. Their first project with Blaze Energy will test a compact fuel reformer for alternative fuels in commercial shipping.
Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis emphasized the vital role of seafarer protection in achieving safe and competitive shipping practices during a maritime program in Athens. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, she highlighted its importance in safeguarding seafarers’ rights amid evolving industry challenges and technological advancements.
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) is enhancing Indian seafarers’ safety through the Seafarers’ Emergency Support Network. This initiative, guided by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, builds on the eNavik tracking system to ensure swift assistance during emergencies, reflecting the government’s commitment to maritime workforce security.
