The Indian government is developing shipbuilding facilities in Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, marking a significant step in maritime industry growth. A partnership with South Korea’s HD Hyundai aims to enhance local production of large ships for intercontinental trade, particularly at Thoothukudi, projected to be worth £10,000 billion.
Adani Krishnapatnam Port Limited (AKPL) celebrated the 62nd National Maritime Day with the theme ‘Samriddh Sagar – Viksit Bharat Yevam Neel Arth Aur Harit Vikas Ke Liye Yuva’, highlighting the role of youth in India’s maritime sector. The event brought together employees, stakeholders, and industry players to promote sustainable growth and collaboration in the maritime industry.
At the fourth National Sagarmala Apex Committee meeting in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh Minister BC Janardhan Reddy emphasized the state’s commitment to maritime growth. He outlined plans to develop an Indian Maritime Center, enhance GDP, and establish a harbor in Bapatla, seeking central support for these initiatives to strengthen India’s maritime prowess.
The Union and Andhra Pradesh governments are teaming up to revive Dugarajapatnam in Tirupati district, transforming it into a shipbuilding and port cluster. RITES Ltd will conduct a technical study for this maritime hub, integrating it with industrial corridors. Plans for similar clusters at Mulapeta and Ramayapatnam are also in the works.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu envisions Andhra Pradesh as a Maritime Hub, emphasizing innovative policies, infrastructure development, and efficient governance. His 10-point formula for a proposed maritime policy focuses on port development, shipbuilding clusters, and allied maritime activities. Naidu aims to attract global investors, integrate tourism and green energy initiatives.
In 2024-25, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority showcased its ability to handle large vessels like INS Vikrant and The World, setting new industry standards. Achievements included night-time berthing of M.V. Star Aspiration and berthing MV Huahine with a record draft. Infrastructure upgrades have solidified VPA’s position as a leading maritime hub in the region.
Months after the N. Chandrababu Naidu-led Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government returned to power in Andhra Pradesh, they are seeking investors to develop and operate ports in the state for cargo handling. However, this move has caused unrest in industry, with confusion whether the EOI pertains to existing ports or new ones.
Andhra Pradesh is gearing up to harness its maritime resources with a new Maritime Policy. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the need for immediate action to revive wealth-generating projects like the AP Maritime board and Inland Waterways Authority. Plans for new airports and airstrips were also discussed to boost industrial growth and employment opportunities.
