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.
The Indian government is considering extending concession periods for privately operated port terminals beyond 30 years to attract long-term investments. The Ministry of Ports emphasizes this for common-user terminals, enabling operators to recover infrastructure costs more effectively. Extended concessions could encourage significant capital expenditures and enhance profitability for terminal operators.
The New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) has partnered with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) Mangalore to establish bunkering services for ships. This five-year agreement aims to enhance fuel supply efficiency for vessels, improving maritime operations at New Mangalore Port significantly.
The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA) is dedicated to fostering a robust maritime ecosystem focused on safety, efficiency, and regulatory excellence. With over 8,400 registered vessels and 14,000 maritime companies, Dubai’s sector attracts a diverse workforce and boasts extensive infrastructure, reinforcing its status as a premier global maritime hub.
Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) recently laid the keel for a second 60-tonne bollard pull tug for the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA). During the ceremony, VPA chairperson Jasmeet Singh Bindra noted that these vessels would enhance port operations significantly. HSL’s commitment to the project reflects a longstanding partnership with VPA.
Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as a prime shipbuilding investment destination at the India Business Roundtable during SMM Hamburg. Secretary Kona Sasidhar highlights the state’s strategic coastal location, strong industrial base, and favorable business climate to attract global shipowners and manufacturers, emphasizing a robust infrastructure and supportive policies for investors.
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority reported that the Port of Colombo is now one of the fastest-growing container hubs, handling 4.44 million TEUs in the first half of 2026. This marks an 11.9% increase, elevating its global ranking from 26th to 20th, underscoring its pivotal role in international shipping.
GAIL (India) Limited, the Deendayal Port Authority, and DNV have formed a Tripartite Cooperation Agreement to establish an LNG bunkering facility at Kandla Port. This collaboration combines LNG expertise, strategic port infrastructure, and maritime safety knowledge, significantly enhancing LNG capabilities and promoting cleaner marine fuels in line with India’s sustainability goals.
MacGregor has been selected to deliver comprehensive cargo handling solutions for six LNG-powered containerships under construction at Cochin Shipyard for CMA CGM. Scheduled for delivery from 2029 to 2031, this project enhances India’s role in sustainable shipping, marking a significant milestone for the Indian maritime industry and global trade.
Engineers India Ltd (EIL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure. This partnership will leverage EIL’s expertise in engineering and project management to support the DGMA in planning and executing various maritime projects, promoting sustainability and operational 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.
India’s maritime infrastructure has transformed significantly over the years, evolving from limited capacity to a national priority. With 12 major and over 200 non-major ports, the focus has shifted to enhancing trade and logistics. Additionally, ports now play a crucial role in national security, supporting both civilian and defense operations.
Morocco plans to unveil a new deepwater port on the Mediterranean by next year and another on the Atlantic by 2028, emulating the success of Tanger Med. Nador West Med will feature an LNG terminal and expansive industrial zones, while Dakhla aims to support heavy industries and green hydrogen production.
Cochin Port, Kerala’s second-largest port, is poised for a ₹10,000 crore upgrade, enhancing both the port and Cochin Shipyard. Key investments include ₹1,500 crore for the Vallarpadam Transhipment Terminal and ₹500 crore for an LNG bunkering facility, aiming to boost container handling and overall maritime capabilities in Kochi.
The Dredging Corporation of India Limited (DCIL) has signed 22 MoUs worth Rs 176.45 billion during the India Maritime Week 2025. Collaborating with major ports and organizations, these agreements focus on dredging operations over the next five years, enhancing India’s maritime capabilities and aligning with the government’s Maritime India Vision 2030.
