The Indian government plans to establish an Interest Incentivisation Fund under the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund. This initiative will enable lower interest borrowing for entities in targeted sectors, enhancing access to credit. Managed by NaBFID and IIFCL, it aims to strengthen India’s maritime industry, fostering growth and innovation.
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.
A National Transportation Safety Board investigation found that a deteriorated dock in Chalmette, Louisiana collapsed into the water after a barge contact. Despite no injuries or pollution, the dock suffered extensive damage. The incident emphasized the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of both the environment and vessels.
The national waterways project, expected to be completed by 2025, aims to attract private sector investments for terminal construction and streamlining processes within India’s waterway network. The government hopes this will increase private entity involvement, boost infrastructure development, and enhance business operations, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for sustainable growth.
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, launched initiatives to modernize India’s maritime infrastructure and enhance global trade. The Operational Norms Overhaul Process (ONOP) aims to streamline operations, while Sagar Ankalan LPPI and Bharat Global Ports Consortium will boost efficiency and enhance India’s global competitiveness in the maritime sector.
Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani met with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez in Baghdad to discuss cooperation in training, regulation, and depositing agreements. They emphasized Iraq’s commitment to strengthening relations with IMO, developing port infrastructure, and completing projects like the Al-Faw Grand Port. The meeting highlighted mutual interest in enhancing Iraq’s maritime sector.
Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski has suggested that captains of ships damaging underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea should face EU sanctions. This proposal comes amid discussions for sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. Sikorski highlighted the need to hold individuals accountable to prevent further damage and maintain security in the region.
India’s National e-Governance Division (NeGD) has partnered with the Indian Ports Association (IPA) to revolutionize the maritime sector through digital transformation. By integrating technology with industry expertise, the initiative aims to modernize operations, enhance efficiency, and streamline logistics, aligning with the goal of making India a leader in maritime digital advancements.
Kerala’s Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, announced a significant update on the Vizhinjam Port project, extending its completion to December 2024. With plans to expand capacity to 30 lakh TEU by 2028, the project is crucial for Kerala’s economic growth. Stakeholders must meet deadlines to avoid financial penalties and fulfill the state’s vision.
The Finnish Geospatial Research Institute (FGI) is collaborating with Fraunhofer IPM to utilize advanced Lidar systems for maritime surface surveys. The ULi and ABS systems, capable of precise 3D measurements underwater and aerial bathymetric measurements, mark a significant advancement in the field, promising an unprecedented level of data quality.
