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India’s maritime sector received a boost in digitalisation and performance-driven governance this week with the launch of a new national port benchmarking framework and a series of technology-focused reforms aimed at improving efficiency across the shipping industry. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced these changes during the 37th Foundation Day celebrations of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) in Mumbai. He also recognized outstanding performers across India’s ports under the Sagar Aankalan Awards for FY 2024-25.
Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla, received the award for top performance in container cargo handling for ports processing under 0.5 million TEUs annually. DPA Deputy Chairman Nilabhra Dasgupta accepted the award on behalf of the authority. A major highlight was the introduction of the Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI), a new framework designed to measure and compare the operational effectiveness of Indian ports. Developed under the Sagar Aankalan initiative, the index aims to support the government's broader goals under PM Gati Shakti, Maritime India Vision 2030, and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
The LPPI assesses ports across various operational parameters, such as vessel turnaround time, cargo throughput, berth productivity, waiting times before berthing, idle berth time, and container dwell time. This framework considers both current performance and year-on-year improvements, encouraging ports to continually enhance their operations.
While addressing stakeholders, Sonowal mentioned that the new index would promote transparency and help Indian ports measure themselves against global standards. He stated that this initiative is focused on boosting India’s competitiveness in international logistics and maritime trade. The government also launched four digital platforms developed by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), aimed at streamlining administrative processes and improving services for stakeholders.
One notable achievement was a 24/7 grievance redressal system for seafarers integrated into the e-Navik platform. This system allows complaints to be submitted through multiple channels, including WhatsApp, a toll-free helpline, email, and the online portal. This makes it easier for Indian seafarers worldwide to access support. Describing this initiative as a vital welfare measure, the minister emphasized that maritime professionals often work in tough conditions far from home and need reliable support systems. He noted that the new framework reinforces India’s commitment to international maritime labor standards and the welfare of its seafaring workforce.
Additional digital reforms include the introduction of an online ship registration module via the e-Samudra platform, a dedicated system for managing certified medical practitioners for seafarers, and a unified portal for managing ship recycling credit benefits. The ship recycling initiative is part of a larger maritime development agenda announced in 2025. Under this plan, owners recycling vessels at compliant Indian facilities can receive credit notes worth 40 percent of a vessel's scrap value, which can be used for domestic shipbuilding projects.
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India has reaffirmed its growing influence in global maritime governance through an active and policy-driven participation at the 137th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, held in London from July 6 to 10. The country's delegation engaged in key discussions on maritime safety, governance reforms, digitalisation, seafarer welfare and international cooperation, reinforcing India's commitment to shaping the future of global shipping. Led by Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Maritime Administration, the Indian delegation advocated a balanced, consensus-based approach to reforms within the IMO. India stressed that any amendments to the organisation's rules should preserve its technical and collaborative character while ensuring greater transparency and consistency in maritime governance. The delegation also highlighted the need for contextual interpretation of audit outcomes under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme, cautioning against simplistic country rankings. Seafarer welfare remained a key focus during the session. India called for stronger international collaboration to ensure timely repatriation, effective financial security mechanisms and improved implementation of the Maritime Labour Convention. The delegation showcased several digital initiatives, including the 24x7 e-Navik Seafarer Assistance Portal and an integrated crisis response framework designed to provide faster grievance redressal and support to Indian seafarers across the world. On the sidelines of the Council meeting, the Indian delegation held high-level discussions with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) and representatives from Kenya. The engagements focused on maritime digitalisation, global standards for seafarer welfare, capacity building, maritime education and stronger international partnerships. India also highlighted its progress in digitising maritime administration through online certification systems, upgraded recruitment and training platforms and measures to curb fraudulent crewing practices. These initiatives are expected to enhance the global recognition and competitiveness of Indian seafarers while supporting efficient maritime compliance. Addressing geopolitical concerns, India emphasised the importance of restoring peace and ensuring safe navigation through critical shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. The delegation underlined that disruptions in strategic maritime corridors have significant implications for global supply chains, trade continuity and shipping costs, reiterating that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective means of resolving regional conflicts. India's constructive interventions at the 137th IMO Council underscore its emergence as a responsible maritime nation that is actively contributing to safer, greener and more resilient global shipping. For the logistics and supply chain industry, India's growing role at the IMO is expected to support stronger maritime governance, improved seafarer welfare and enhanced resilience across international trade networks. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) welcomed the newly built vessel MV MINI ATLAS 2 on its maiden call, marking another milestone in the port's efforts to strengthen its position as a preferred maritime gateway on India's west coast. The vessel, built in Indonesia, received a traditional ceremonial welcome upon its arrival, reflecting the maritime industry's long-standing practice of honouring a ship's inaugural visit to a port. The maiden call underscores the growing confidence of international shipping lines in New Mangalore Port's operational capabilities and efficient cargo-handling infrastructure. Such first-time vessel calls are considered significant as they often pave the way for long-term commercial engagements and regular shipping services, enhancing trade connectivity and port competitiveness. Officials from the New Mangalore Port Authority extended a warm reception to the vessel's master and crew, commemorating the occasion with the exchange of plaques and mementoes. The event highlighted the port's commitment to fostering strong relationships with global shipping stakeholders while promoting seamless vessel operations. Strategically located on Karnataka's coastline, New Mangalore Port has emerged as a key gateway for handling a diverse range of cargo, including petroleum products, coal, fertilizers, containers, edible oils, timber, iron ore pellets and project cargo. The addition of new international vessel calls further reinforces the port's role in supporting India's expanding maritime trade and supply chain ecosystem. The arrival of MV MINI ATLAS 2 also reflects the increasing integration of regional shipping networks across Asia. As trade volumes continue to grow, ports that offer efficient turnaround times, modern infrastructure and customer-focused services are becoming increasingly attractive to shipping companies seeking reliable logistics hubs. Over the past few years, New Mangalore Port has been investing in capacity enhancement, digitalisation and sustainability initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency. These efforts have helped the port strengthen its standing among India's major ports while supporting the objectives of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to modernise the country's maritime infrastructure. Industry observers note that maiden vessel calls are more than ceremonial occasions—they signal new commercial opportunities, expand shipping connectivity and contribute to stronger regional trade links. For exporters, importers and logistics service providers, increased vessel traffic translates into greater flexibility, improved shipping options and enhanced supply chain resilience. As global shipping networks continue to evolve, the successful maiden call of MV MINI ATLAS 2 reinforces New Mangalore Port's growing importance as a strategic maritime hub capable of facilitating international trade while supporting India's ambition of becoming a global logistics powerhouse. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Escalating tensions in West Asia have significantly disrupted air cargo exports from Kerala, with cargo movement through Cochin International Airport (CIAL) and Calicut International Airport falling sharply as flight cancellations and reduced services to Gulf destinations affect exporters of perishable goods. The Gulf region is a key export market for Kerala's air cargo, handling large volumes of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, flowers and other time-sensitive products. The ongoing disruption has reduced available cargo capacity, delayed shipments and increased uncertainty for exporters dependent on regular air connectivity to West Asia. According to CIAL officials, daily outbound air cargo volumes from Kochi have dropped from around 150 tonnes before the crisis to nearly 60 tonnes. Perishable cargo, which normally accounts for about 60% of total exports, has been the hardest hit due to limited flight availability and longer transit times. To ease the backlog, a dedicated cargo aircraft from Abu Dhabi was deployed to transport stranded consignments, including a large volume of perishables. Airport authorities said flight services to some Gulf destinations have gradually resumed, raising expectations that cargo movement will improve as airline schedules normalise. Exporters operating through both Kochi and Calicut have been forced to adjust logistics plans as airlines reduce frequencies or reroute services because of the regional conflict. Industry stakeholders say the disruptions have increased transportation costs and created challenges for maintaining delivery schedules, particularly for products with short shelf lives. Despite the temporary setback, CIAL recorded nearly 72,200 metric tonnes of cargo during FY2025-26, reflecting close to 10% annual growth even as operations were affected by the West Asia crisis. Airport authorities attributed the resilience to diversified cargo streams and efforts to maintain export connectivity wherever possible. Kochi remains Kerala's largest air cargo gateway, handling nearly 60% of the state's air freight and serving as a critical hub for exports to the Gulf, Europe and other international markets. The airport continues to play a central role in supporting Kerala's agricultural and seafood exports, with industry participants expecting cargo volumes to recover as regional air services stabilise. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
