The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported on March 18 that all Indian seafarers in the Middle East are safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels. Currently, 22 ships with 611 Indian seafarers are operating in the western Persian Gulf, while the Directorate General of Shipping monitors the situation closely.
The central government has appointed Vijay Kumar, a 1992 IAS officer, as the new secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. Starting October 1, he will transition from his current role as chairman of the Waterways Authority of India, where he has advanced the country’s water transport network.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways is pushing to eliminate the 5% IGST on imported ships under the Indian flag to boost local tonnage. Domestic shipbuilders are concerned that this move could make imported ships more competitive, overshadowing locally-produced vessels. The Finance Ministry’s decision will impact the future of India’s maritime industry.
India is gearing up to strengthen its presence in the global merchant shipping sector by hosting the first-ever Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue in New Delhi. With representatives from over 60 countries expected to participate, the conference aims to showcase India’s growing role in international maritime affairs and trade.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways appointed Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker as their brand ambassador, leveraging her shooting prowess and maritime background. Minister Sonowal hailed Bhaker’s role in promoting India’s marine sector, aiming for self-reliance by 2047. The event honored women like Lt. Commander Joshi for their contributions to nation-building.
