Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has continued its strong growth trajectory by recording double-digit growth in both container traffic and overall cargo handling during the first four months of FY2026-27. The port handled 29,94,859 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of container traffic and 36.62 million tonnes of total cargo between April and July 2026, reaffirming its position as a key gateway for the country’s maritime trade. The latest operational data shows that container throughput grew by 14.37% year-on-year, while overall cargo volumes increased by 11.95% compared with the corresponding period of the previous financial year. The sustained performance reflects JNPA’s continued focus on operational efficiency, infrastructure development and seamless cargo movement across the logistics value chain. According to JNPA, the growth has been driven by improved vessel turnaround time, enhanced cargo handling efficiency, higher terminal productivity and better multimodal connectivity. The collaborative efforts of terminal operators, shipping lines, logistics service providers, customs authorities and other stakeholders have also played a crucial role in sustaining the port’s momentum. The port’s investments in modern infrastructure, digital initiatives and capacity augmentation have enabled it to efficiently manage rising cargo volumes while maintaining reliable and efficient operations. Its integrated road and rail connectivity, supported by ongoing modernisation programmes, continues to strengthen JNPA’s position as one of India’s leading logistics and container handling hubs. Performance highlights released by the authority indicate that JNPA handled 7,45,059 TEUs of containers and 8.78 million tonnes of cargo in July 2026 alone, registering year-on-year growth of 11.48% and 3.18%, respectively. During the April–July period, the port also handled 2,317 container rakes, with rail movement accounting for 391,563 TEUs, underlining the importance of multimodal transport in facilitating efficient cargo evacuation. The encouraging results underscore the resilience of India’s maritime sector and the growing confidence of global shipping lines and trade partners in JNPA’s capabilities. As international trade volumes continue to expand, the port remains focused on enhancing customer experience through faster cargo evacuation, improved logistics efficiency and sustainable port operations. With continued investments in infrastructure and technology, JNPA is well-positioned to support India’s expanding trade ambitions while contributing to the Government’s vision of developing the country into a globally competitive maritime and logistics hub. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Gujarat Government has launched the Shipbuilding Policy 2026, a strategic initiative aimed at transforming the state into India's premier shipbuilding and ship repair hub. The policy seeks to attract investments exceeding Rs 27,000 crore, create a shipbuilding capacity of 50 lakh Deadweight Tonnage (DWT), and establish two world-class shipbuilding parks, reinforcing Gujarat's position in the country's maritime and logistics ecosystem. The new policy comes at a time when India is intensifying efforts to strengthen domestic shipbuilding capabilities under the broader vision of developing a self-reliant maritime sector. With Gujarat already accounting for a significant share of India's ship recycling, ports and maritime trade, the state aims to leverage its extensive coastline, robust port infrastructure and industrial ecosystem to emerge as a global destination for shipbuilding. A key highlight of the policy is the development of two integrated mega shipbuilding parks equipped with modern infrastructure and common facilities. These parks are expected to support the construction of commercial vessels, specialised ships and offshore structures while also promoting ancillary industries involved in marine equipment, engineering and component manufacturing. To attract investors, the policy offers a range of financial incentives, including capital assistance, interest subsidies, skill development support and infrastructure incentives. The state government expects these measures to encourage both domestic and international companies to establish manufacturing facilities and expand operations in Gujarat. Besides increasing industrial investment, the initiative is projected to generate substantial employment opportunities across shipbuilding, ship repair, marine engineering, logistics and allied sectors. The policy also places emphasis on developing a skilled workforce through dedicated training programmes, ensuring the availability of specialised talent required by the industry. Industry experts believe the policy could significantly strengthen India's maritime manufacturing capabilities while reducing dependence on imported vessels. The expansion of shipbuilding infrastructure is also expected to improve coastal shipping, facilitate exports and enhance the efficiency of the country's logistics network. The Shipbuilding Policy 2026 aligns with the Centre's vision of making India a global maritime powerhouse and complements ongoing investments in ports, coastal infrastructure and multimodal logistics. By creating an enabling ecosystem for shipbuilding and marine manufacturing, Gujarat is positioning itself to play a pivotal role in supporting India's long-term ambitions in global trade and supply chain development. With substantial investments, infrastructure development and industry-friendly incentives, Gujarat's latest policy is expected to provide fresh momentum to the country's maritime economy while strengthening the state's leadership in the logistics and shipping sector. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has strongly condemned the latest attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea, describing them as "indefensible" and warning that the renewed violence poses a serious threat to global trade, seafarer safety and already fragile supply chains. In a statement issued by IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, the UN maritime agency expressed grave concern over the resurgence of attacks targeting international shipping in one of the world's busiest maritime corridors. The Red Sea serves as a vital gateway connecting Europe and Asia through the Suez Canal, carrying a significant share of global containerised cargo, energy shipments and manufactured goods. Dominguez stressed that the attacks not only endanger the lives of seafarers but also jeopardise the security of international shipping, threaten the marine environment and undermine the stability of global supply chains. He reiterated that freedom of navigation must be protected and called on all parties to uphold international law while avoiding actions that could further escalate regional tensions. The IMO also renewed its appeal for intensified diplomatic efforts to restore stability in the region. The organisation emphasised that seafarers, who play a critical role in facilitating global trade, should never become victims of geopolitical conflicts. According to the IMO, safeguarding maritime transport is essential to maintaining the uninterrupted movement of food, fuel, raw materials and consumer goods across international markets. The latest incidents have revived concerns across the shipping and logistics industry, which had already endured prolonged disruptions following earlier attacks in the Red Sea. Many shipping lines had previously diverted vessels around the Cape of Good Hope to minimise security risks, resulting in longer transit times, increased fuel consumption, vessel capacity constraints and higher freight costs. Those diversions also affected inventory planning and supply chain resilience for manufacturers and retailers worldwide. The IMO noted that confirmed attacks on merchant shipping in recent years have demonstrated the vulnerability of global maritime trade to regional conflicts. Industry stakeholders fear that renewed hostilities could once again trigger route diversions, increase insurance premiums and create fresh uncertainty for international logistics networks if security conditions continue to deteriorate. Reaffirming the organisation's commitment to maritime safety and security, Dominguez urged the international community to work collectively towards ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels and protecting the global maritime transport system that underpins international commerce. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

DP World has unveiled plans to develop two new maritime terminals on the UAE’s eastern coast in Fujairah under a 50-year concession agreement with the Fujairah Ports Authority, marking a major investment aimed at enhancing the country’s logistics resilience while reducing dependence on the Strait of Hormuz. The project will significantly strengthen the UAE’s gateway network by creating an alternative trade corridor outside one of the world’s busiest and most strategically sensitive shipping routes. The development includes the Al Rugaylat Container and Multi-purpose Terminal and the Dibba General Cargo Terminal. Together, the facilities will expand DP World’s cargo handling capabilities, improve multimodal connectivity and reinforce the company’s integrated logistics ecosystem linking ports, inland transport and distribution networks across the UAE. Once operational, the Al Rugaylat terminal will have an annual handling capacity of up to 2.5 million TEUs, 1.7 million tonnes of general cargo, and approximately 190,000 car equivalent units (CEUs). The Dibba terminal will add 3.6 million tonnes of annual general cargo capacity. The expansion is expected to increase DP World’s total container handling capacity in the UAE from 19.4 million TEUs to nearly 22 million TEUs, supporting growing regional and international trade volumes. Construction of both terminals will be carried out in phases over the next 24 to 30 months. The new facilities will complement DP World’s flagship Jebel Ali Port through an integrated inland logistics network, enabling cargo to move efficiently between the country’s eastern and western coasts while providing customers with greater flexibility and route diversification.  The investment comes amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty in the Gulf region, where disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have underscored the importance of supply chain resilience. By establishing additional port infrastructure on the Gulf of Oman, DP World aims to provide shippers with more reliable access to global markets while safeguarding trade flows against regional disruptions.  DP World said the Fujairah expansion aligns with its long-term strategy of building an interconnected logistics network that combines ports, terminals, warehousing, transport and value-added supply chain services. The company believes the new terminals will not only improve cargo efficiency but also strengthen the UAE’s position as a global logistics and maritime hub capable of supporting evolving trade patterns. Overall, the project is expected to generate long-term economic benefits for Fujairah by attracting new investments, supporting industrial development and creating employment opportunities while reinforcing the UAE’s role as a critical gateway connecting Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East.  𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has granted in-principal approval for the development of a Greenfield Shipbuilding Cluster in Porbandar, Gujarat. The project, approved under the Shipbuilding Development Scheme is expected to enhance domestic shipbuilding capabilities, improve supply chain resilience and position India as a competitive global maritime manufacturing hub. The integrated shipbuilding cluster will be developed at Kuchhadi in Porbandar through the National Shipbuilding and Heavy Industries Park, Gujarat (NSHIP-Gujarat), jointly promoted by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Gujarat Maritime Board. Spread across nearly 2,000 acres, the facility will house modern shipyards, ancillary manufacturing units, common infrastructure and capability development centres to support large-scale vessel production. With an estimated annual shipbuilding capacity of 1.2 to 1.5 million gross tonnage (GT), the cluster is expected to significantly expand India’s indigenous manufacturing capabilities while creating a robust ecosystem for marine engineering, heavy fabrication, equipment manufacturing and logistics services. The project is also expected to generate substantial employment opportunities and attract investments across the maritime value chain. Alongside the Porbandar project, the ministry has also approved a state-of-the-art ship repair facility at Vadinar in the Gulf of Kutch. The ₹1,570-crore project, to be jointly developed by Cochin Shipyard Limited and Deendayal Port Authority, will receive financial assistance under the Shipbuilding Development Scheme for eligible infrastructure. The facility is expected to reduce dependence on overseas ship repair yards, improve vessel turnaround times and strengthen India’s maritime service capabilities. The twin projects form a key part of the government’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, which aims to transform India into a leading global maritime nation by developing world-class infrastructure, promoting indigenous manufacturing and enhancing competitiveness across the shipping sector. According to the ministry, these initiatives will support the growth of domestic shipbuilding and repair industries while improving integration with global supply chains. For the logistics and supply chain industry, the development is expected to create new opportunities for steel manufacturers, component suppliers, heavy engineering companies, port operators and multimodal logistics providers. By strengthening backward linkages and encouraging localisation of marine equipment manufacturing, the projects are likely to reduce import dependence and improve the efficiency of India’s maritime logistics ecosystem, supporting the country’s long-term ambitions of becoming a global shipping and manufacturing powerhouse. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The deal values Kerala’s fast-growing transshipment hub at nearly $2.85 billion and marks a significant foreign investment in India’s maritime infrastructure. Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has entered into an agreement with Switzerland-based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) to divest a 49% stake in its Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala for a total investment of $1.4 billion (around ₹13,225 crore). The partnership is expected to strengthen the port’s position as a leading transshipment hub while supporting its next phase of expansion. The investment will be made through Terminal Investment Ltd (TiL), MSC’s port investment arm. As per the agreement, TiL will initially invest $539 million to acquire a 49% stake in Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt. Ltd. (AVPPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of APSEZ. It will further contribute $858 million by December 2028 towards its share of the port’s ongoing capacity enhancement programme. According to APSEZ, the transaction represents the largest single foreign private investment made in India's port sector to date. The company believes the strategic alliance with one of the world's biggest container shipping companies will accelerate cargo growth and improve long-term operational efficiency at Vizhinjam. Currently capable of handling 1.6 million TEUs annually, the port is undergoing a major expansion that will raise its capacity to 4.1 million TEUs, with a long-term roadmap to increase it further to 5.7 million TEUs. The expansion project carries an estimated cost of $1.75 billion. Beyond financial investment, the collaboration is expected to provide the port with stronger cargo commitments from MSC's global shipping network. APSEZ said this would improve traffic visibility, enable faster capacity utilisation, and help attract additional transshipment volumes, particularly cargo originating from Bangladesh that is presently routed through Southeast Asian ports. Investor sentiment remained positive following the announcement. Shares of Adani Ports traded about 1% higher during Tuesday's morning session, while the stock has gained more than 20% since the beginning of the year. Commenting on the development, APSEZ Whole-time Director and CEO Ashwani Gupta said Vizhinjam has rapidly established itself as India's leading transshipment port, becoming the country's first facility to handle over 2 million TEUs within just 18 months of commencing operations. Transshipment ports play a crucial role in global shipping by transferring cargo containers between vessels before they continue to their final destinations. Owing to its strategic location near major international shipping lanes and its naturally deep draft, Vizhinjam is expected to compete with established global hubs such as Singapore, Tanjung Pelepas (Malaysia), Busan (South Korea), Tanger Med (Morocco), and Shanghai (China). The port has witnessed remarkable growth since operations began. During its first full year, ending in December 2025, it handled approximately 1.3 million containers across 615 vessel calls, making it the fastest Indian port to surpass the one-million-TEU milestone. Within 18 months, it crossed the two-million-TEU mark, and recently welcomed its 1,000th vessel. Gupta added that expanding APSEZ's long-standing association with MSC to Vizhinjam would further enhance global supply chain connectivity while improving India's access to both established and emerging international markets.

The Government of India has approved a two-year extension in the tenure of Shyam Jagannathan as the Director General of Shipping (DG Shipping), reinforcing continuity in the country's maritime governance at a time when the sector is undergoing significant digital and regulatory transformation. The extension, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), will allow Jagannathan to continue serving in the Additional Secretary-level position under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. A 1997-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, Jagannathan assumed charge as Director General of Shipping on July 3, 2023. Since taking office, he has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at modernising India's maritime administration through technology-driven governance, process automation and enhanced regulatory compliance. The Directorate General of Shipping serves as India's apex maritime regulatory authority and is responsible for implementing the Merchant Shipping Act, enforcing international maritime conventions, promoting safety standards, regulating seafarer certification, and overseeing shipping operations in the country. Under Jagannathan's leadership, the organisation has accelerated efforts to digitise end-to-end workflows, simplify stakeholder interactions and strengthen examination reforms aligned with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). Prior to his current assignment, Jagannathan held several key administrative positions across both the Central and State governments. He served as Zonal Development Commissioner of the Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone (SEEPZ) Special Economic Zone under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. His experience also includes leadership roles as Commissioner and Secretary in Assam's Finance Department, Commissioner of North Assam Division, Commissioner of Commercial Taxes in Kerala, Chairman of the Civil Supplies Corporation, and District Magistrate of West Garo Hills in Meghalaya. This diverse administrative background has equipped him with extensive expertise in governance, public policy and institutional reforms. Industry stakeholders view the extension as a positive development for India's maritime ecosystem, as it ensures policy continuity amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the country's shipping competitiveness, improve ease of doing business, enhance seafarer welfare and advance the objectives of Maritime India Vision 2030. With global shipping navigating evolving regulatory requirements and increasing digitalisation, stable leadership at the Directorate General of Shipping is expected to support India's ambitions of becoming a leading maritime nation and logistics hub. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Central government is planning a major expansion of border trade infrastructure in West Bengal, with proposals for seven to eight new international land ports along the borders with Bangladesh and Nepal. The move is aimed at facilitating smoother movement of both cargo and passengers while unlocking additional trade opportunities with neighbouring countries. The proposed facilities will be developed by the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI), which functions under the Ministry of Home Affairs. At present, Petrapole—the country's busiest land port located near Bongaon on the India-Bangladesh border—remains West Bengal's only operational international land port. Officials believe that additional border infrastructure could significantly improve logistics efficiency in eastern India, particularly as trade volumes with neighbouring nations continue to grow. Several strategic locations have already been identified for development, including Panitanki on the India-Nepal border, Ghojadanga in North 24 Parganas, Hili in Dinajpur and Birpara in Alipurduar, among others. Many of these locations currently handle trade through existing land customs stations. However, authorities are looking to upgrade them into fully integrated land ports equipped with modern facilities capable of supporting larger cargo volumes and streamlined passenger movement. According to LPAI Chairman Jayant Singh, the authority is working on plans to establish multiple new land ports across the state. Speaking on the sidelines of an industry event in Kolkata, he indicated that each project would typically require around 50 acres of land situated directly along the international border. Land acquisition has emerged as one of the primary challenges slowing the rollout of these projects. While infrastructure plans have been under consideration for some time, securing suitable land parcels near the border has proven difficult. Officials are hopeful that closer coordination between state and central authorities will help address these hurdles and accelerate project implementation. Unlike conventional border checkpoints, modern land ports function as integrated trade and transit hubs. They bring together cargo handling facilities, warehousing infrastructure, truck parking zones, customs clearance, immigration services, cold storage units and security operations under a single framework. Such facilities are designed to reduce congestion, improve turnaround times and enhance the overall efficiency of cross-border trade. The proposed projects in West Bengal form part of a much larger national strategy. The Centre is evaluating plans to develop 74 additional land ports across India, significantly expanding the country's border trade network beyond the 15 facilities currently in operation. The government's focus on land-port infrastructure comes at a time when trade with neighbouring countries is gaining momentum. Official estimates show that India's trade with neighbouring nations amounted to ₹2.27 lakh crore, of which nearly ₹82,844 crore was routed through existing land ports. Authorities also believe that India's land borders hold substantial untapped potential, with opportunities for additional trade worth more than ₹4.44 lakh crore. With their strategic location and proximity to key regional markets, the proposed land ports in West Bengal are expected to play an important role in strengthening supply chains, improving trade connectivity and supporting economic integration across South Asia in the years ahead.

Kerala has launched an ambitious ₹400 crore initiative, Mission Samudra, aimed at transforming the state into a leading maritime and logistics hub while driving a port-led economic development model. Announced as part of the Kerala Budget 2026-27, the programme seeks to integrate the state’s extensive coastline, ports, inland waterways, logistics infrastructure, and maritime industries into a unified economic ecosystem. Mission Samudra is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Kerala’s position within India’s maritime trade network. The state plans to leverage its nearly 600-km coastline, two international seaports, the Vizhinjam International Transshipment Port, multiple non-major ports, and inland water transport systems to create a globally competitive maritime cluster. For the logistics and supply chain sector, the initiative signals a significant push toward multimodal connectivity and cargo movement efficiency. The government has proposed the development of manufacturing clusters, container stuffing facilities, dry ports, and logistics parks around key maritime gateways, particularly Vizhinjam and Kochi. These investments are expected to improve hinterland connectivity, reduce logistics costs, and attract export-oriented industries. A phased coastal water transport network is also planned under the mission. The first phase will focus on cargo transportation, followed by passenger services and eventually a fully integrated waterway network linking major and minor ports with inland waterways. Industry observers believe such connectivity could unlock new opportunities for coastal shipping and last-mile logistics. Another key component of Mission Samudra is the promotion of emerging maritime industries. Kerala intends to establish shipbuilding and ship repair facilities, expand maritime tourism, and explore green shipping opportunities. The state has also announced plans to position Vizhinjam as a pioneering green bunkering destination, aligning with the global shipping industry’s transition toward cleaner fuels. The government is simultaneously working on a comprehensive maritime policy that will encourage private sector participation in port infrastructure, logistics services, and maritime industrial development. By unlocking the economic potential of its coastal assets, Kerala aims to attract investments, generate employment in coastal communities, and strengthen its role in international trade corridors. With Mission Samudra, Kerala is placing maritime infrastructure and logistics at the centre of its growth strategy. If executed effectively, the initiative could emerge as one of India’s most significant examples of integrated port-led development, creating new opportunities across shipping, warehousing, manufacturing, and supply chain services. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has expanded its technology partnership with US-based supply chain software provider Kaleris, committing up to $100 million toward automation and optimisation initiatives as it accelerates digital transformation across its port operations. The multi-year agreement will see Kaleris deploy AI-enabled terminal operating and optimisation systems across APSEZ’s network of 15 container terminals located at nine domestic and international ports. The rollout is intended to create a unified digital platform that improves operational visibility, planning accuracy and resource utilisation across the company’s maritime logistics ecosystem. The investment forms part of APSEZ’s broader plan to spend approximately $850 million on technology upgrades and decarbonisation initiatives by 2031. The company said automation investments under the Kaleris partnership will be implemented in phases to support long-term capacity expansion and operational efficiency goals. According to APSEZ, the technology deployment is expected to help unlock an additional 91 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo-handling capacity by 2030, equivalent to roughly 10% of its current installed capacity. The company is targeting annual cargo-handling capability of one billion tonnes by the end of the decade. The expanded programme builds on earlier deployments at six ports and will extend advanced planning, container handling and terminal optimisation capabilities across the wider network. APSEZ expects the systems to improve yard utilisation, accelerate vessel turnaround times and enhance end-to-end coordination between port assets and logistics operations. The company said the initiative aligns with its strategy to integrate artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and data-driven decision-making into port operations. By standardising systems across multiple terminals, APSEZ aims to improve productivity and operational consistency while supporting future growth in cargo volumes. As India’s largest integrated transport and logistics operator, APSEZ currently accounts for a significant share of the country’s port cargo volumes and continues to expand its domestic and international footprint. The latest investment underscores the growing role of automation and AI in modern container terminal management as operators seek higher efficiency, faster vessel turnaround and improved supply chain visibility. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates. 

India’s maritime regulator has outlined an eight-pillar roadmap aimed at steering the country’s shipping sector toward net-zero emissions, with a focus on cleaner fuels, sustainable port operations, green financing, workforce development and environmentally responsible ship recycling. Speaking on World Ocean Day, Director General of Shipping Shyam Jagannathan said the framework is designed to support the decarbonisation of a sector that handles the vast majority of India’s international trade while aligning with the country’s long-term economic and environmental objectives. The roadmap forms part of the Directorate General of Shipping’s National Maritime Decarbonisation Policy Framework and centres on five broad themes: green shipping and ports, sustainable ship recycling, green finance and technology, human capital development, and waste management. On ship recycling, India intends to align its practices with the standards of the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships. Authorities also plan to expand the use of digital platforms and improve access to capital for green maritime projects. The roadmap places significant emphasis on workforce development. India currently accounts for around 16.5% of the global seafaring workforce, and policymakers aim to increase that share beyond 20% over time through training and skill development initiatives. Jagannathan linked the maritime transition agenda to the government’s broader Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, highlighting the growing importance of the blue economy. He noted that maritime and ocean-based sectors contribute roughly 4% of India’s GDP and are expected to play a larger role in supporting long-term economic growth. Beyond shipping, the strategy identifies opportunities in cruise tourism, coastal shipping, aquaculture, marine biotechnology and deep-sea resource development. India’s coastline, stretching approximately 11,000 kilometres, is expected to remain central to these growth plans. The policy push is also accompanied by a wider legislative agenda. Proposed reforms include amendments to the Merchant Shipping Act, a new Coastal Shipping Act focused on domestic maritime transport and feeder services, and changes to the Indian Ports Act aimed at encouraging greater private-sector participation and modern port governance models. Addressing environmental concerns, Jagannathan stressed the need to tackle pollution entering marine ecosystems through rivers, including microplastics, untreated sewage and industrial discharge. He reiterated India’s commitment to global climate and ocean sustainability goals while calling for transparent international funding mechanisms that support developing economies during the maritime energy transition. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates. 

Höegh Aurora, the flagship of Höegh Autoliners' next-generation Aurora Class fleet, makes its historic maiden calls to the Indian ports of Ennore, Mumbai, and Pipavav, marking a significant milestone in the company's continued commitment to India and its growing export economy. The maiden voyage of Höegh Aurora to India underscores Höegh Autoliners' long-standing partnership with the Indian industry and its commitment to supporting the country's rapidly expanding automotive, industrial, and project cargo sectors with sustainable and future-ready ocean transportation solutions. For more than 15 years, Höegh Autoliners has been connecting Indian manufacturing to global markets, transporting millions of cubic metres of automobiles, project cargo, and industrial equipment from Indian ports to customers across four continents. From metro coaches and locomotives to construction, mining, and agricultural equipment, the company continues to play a key role in enabling India's growing industrial footprint worldwide.   Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Andreas Enger, CEO of Höegh Autoliners, said: "The maiden call of Höegh Aurora marks an exciting new chapter in our 15-year commitment to Indian trade. As one of our most important and dynamic markets, India plays a key role in our global network, and with Höegh Aurora we can now offer our customers industry-leading capacity and the most sustainable deep-sea transportation in our segment." Her arrival comes at a particularly fitting moment. Just two weeks ago, during the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Norway in more than 40 years, our two countries launched a Green Strategic Partnership, with green shipping identified as a key priority. A Norwegian-flagged vessel at the forefront of maritime decarbonisation, carrying Indian cargo to global markets, is a tangible example of that ambition being put into practice. Capt. Atuldutt Sharma, Head of Sales – Middle East, India & Sri Lanka, Höegh Autoliners, added: "The maiden call of Höegh Aurora to India is a significant milestone for our customers and partners across the region. India continues to be one of the fastest-growing manufacturing and export hubs globally, and the Aurora Class is purpose-built to support this growth. Combining industry-leading sustainability with unmatched cargo flexibility, these vessels enable us to offer safe, efficient, and future-ready transportation solutions for automobiles, High & Heavy, breakbulk, and project cargoes from India to global markets." The Aurora Class represents a transformational leap in sustainable deep-sea transportation and reflects Höegh Autoliners' commitment towards decarbonisation and greener shipping solutions. Designed as the world's most environmentally friendly Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), the Aurora Class has sustainability at the core of its design and operations.   With a carrying capacity of 9,100 CEUs, the Aurora Class vessel “Höegh Aurora” is the largest PCTC to call India, a record previously held by Höegh Autoliners Horizon class vessels with a carrying capacity of 8,500 CEUs, which have been regularly calling Indian ports since “Höegh Tracer” made its maiden call in 2017. The Aurora Class vessels are multi-fuel ready and equipped with advanced MAN engines capable of operating on Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and LNG, while also being prepared for future conversion to carbon-neutral ammonia and methanol propulsion. The Aurora Class is the first vessel class in the PCTC segment to receive DNV's ammonia-ready and methanol-ready notations and is designed to reduce carbon emissions per car transported by up to 58% compared to the current industry standard. The Aurora Class is a key enabler of Höegh Autoliners' ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 and provides customers with a significantly lower carbon footprint for their supply chains while maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and operational flexibility. Beyond its environmental credentials, the Aurora Class has been purpose-built to carry a wide range of High & Heavy, breakbulk, and project cargoes in addition to automobiles. Key features include: • Additionally strengthened decks for heavier cargo loads • Wide internal ramps for seamless cargo movement • Shore ramp with Safe Working Load (SWL) of up to 375 metric tonnes • 12-metre-wide and 6.5-metre-high stern door opening • Enhanced deck heights and cargo flexibility for future cargo requirements These advanced cargo capabilities enable the safe transportation of oversized and complex cargoes, including mining and construction equipment, wind turbine components, transformers, locomotives, rolling stock, metro coaches, heavy machinery, and other project cargoes alongside automotive cargo. The successful maiden call of Höegh Aurora to Indian ports further demonstrates Höegh Autoliners' confidence in India as a strategic manufacturing and export hub. As India continues to strengthen its position in global trade, Höegh Autoliners remains committed to supporting the country's growth ambitions through sustainable shipping solutions, innovative vessel technology, and reliable global ocean transportation services. The arrival of Höegh Aurora represents not only the introduction of the most environmentally friendly PCTC ever built but also a clear demonstration of Höegh Autoliners' long-term commitment to India, its customers, and a more sustainable future for global shipping.  For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.