On January 27, Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, visited Chennai Port to review operations and development aligned with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. He inaugurated infrastructure projects totaling ₹54.27 crore, aiming to enhance coastal connectivity and modernize port facilities for improved efficiency.
Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Karan Adani inaugurated the second phase of the Vizhinjam Port expansion, a ₹16,000 crore project aimed at enhancing maritime capacity. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal attended, highlighting bipartisan support. Vizhinjam, already India’s fastest port to process one million TEUs, aspires to become a leading transshipment hub.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated 16 infrastructure projects and 113 CSR initiatives worth ₹1,500 crore during the New Mangalore Port Authority’s golden jubilee. This investment aligns with India’s Maritime Vision 2030 and aims to enhance maritime infrastructure. The NMPA, managing over 46 million tonnes of cargo annually, plans to double this capacity by 2047.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the gas carrier Shivalik at Visakhapatnam Port, marking its debut under the Indian flag. Acquired by the Shipping Corporation of India, the Shivalik enhances India’s LPG logistics. Sonowal emphasized this achievement within the context of the nation’s maritime ambitions and the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
The Indian Maritime University (IMU) in Kolkata inaugurated the Dr. Ravi K. Mehrotra Excellence Center in Sea Traffic on July 18, 2025. This center, backed by significant investment and industry partnerships, aims to enhance maritime research and collaborations, with a focus on innovative technologies and advanced training in the maritime sector.
On the Day of the Seafarer 2025, the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority inaugurated its new Seafarer’s Club, emphasizing support for maritime professionals. Unveiled by key officials, the modern facility provides a serene environment, highlighting JNPA’s commitment to recognizing seafarers’ vital role in global trade and international commerce.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated India’s first Non-Banking Financial Company in the maritime sector, Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited. He highlighted its role in bridging financing gaps for ports and startups, aligning with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The event also saw the launch of the SAGAR SETU platform for operational efficiency.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has inaugurated a strategic bridge in Vizhinjam Harbor, Kerala, aimed at bolstering coastal security. ICG General Director Paramesh Sivamani emphasized its significance for enhancing response times in monitoring, fishing protection, and anti-smuggling operations, reinforcing the region’s maritime safety and operational readiness.
On May 28, 2025, Shantanu Thakur inaugurated significant projects at Deendayal Port Authority, highlighting a commitment to enhancing seafarer welfare and operational excellence. Key developments include a Seafarer Centre with premium amenities, an extended railway infrastructure for better cargo efficiency, and a new telescopic gangway for safer vessel access.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vizhinjam port, a ₹8,900 crore project, emphasizing its role in enhancing India’s maritime security. He highlighted the port as a catalyst for regional development, boosting trade and economic growth, while creating employment opportunities and improving logistics efficiency for larger cargo ships in global trade.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to commission the Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2, after it has been operational for commercial purposes since December. The delay in inauguration was due to technical issues, now resolved. Agreements have been made for funding and environmental clearance, paving the way for future development.
On March 28, 2025, New Delhi hosted the 62nd National Maritime Day celebrations, marking a significant occasion. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received the Merchant Navy flag, an event steered by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal. Key maritime figures gathered to discuss the industry’s future and its economic importance.
