The Indian Maritime University (IMU), a Central University under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, has announced AZIMUTH 2026 – Academic Zeal for Innovation in Maritime: Understanding Transformation and Horizons, an international conference dedicated to digital transformation and innovation in maritime management. The event will take place at the IMU Chennai Campus on 12–13 February 2026, bringing together global maritime leaders, policymakers, researchers, technologists, and industry professionals.
The maritime sector is undergoing rapid technological evolution, and AZIMUTH 2026 aims to highlight the innovations reshaping the industry. Key focus areas include:
- Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and autonomous underwater vehicles
- Artificial Intelligence and Big Data analytics in maritime decision-making
- Blockchain applications for transparent logistics and supply chains
- Cybersecurity frameworks for smart ports and digital shipping
- Digital Twin technologies for predictive asset management
- Sustainable and green digital maritime solutions
The conference will also foster dialogue on regulatory frameworks, global standards, and governance systems essential to support this digital transition while ensuring safety, sustainability, and efficiency.
IMU Vice Chancellor Malini V. Shankar emphasized India’s commitment to implementing maritime digital initiatives: “All the initiatives that have been taken are in alignment with what was planned and documented. It is a commitment of India to not just put it on paper but to actually implement it.”
AZIMUTH 2026 invites academicians, researchers, industry experts, and maritime professionals to submit original research papers across six thematic tracks:
- Smart Ports, Logistics & Supply Chain Technologies
- Maritime Data Science, AI & Predictive Analytics
- Cybersecurity, Digital Governance & Regulatory Innovation
- Autonomous Shipping, Smart Navigation & Fleet Operations
- Sustainability, Circular Economy & Green Maritime Solutions
- Integrated Transport Ecosystems
Selected papers will be considered for publication in Scopus and Web of Science indexed journals, while all accepted papers will be published in the official conference proceedings with an ISBN. Best Paper Awards will also be presented, accompanied by cash prizes.
Through keynote addresses, technical sessions, panel discussions, and industry-academia interactions, AZIMUTH 2026 seeks to accelerate maritime innovation and digital capability building worldwide. The conference will be conducted in hybrid mode, enabling both physical and virtual participation.
The event will be hosted at the scenic IMU Chennai Campus, located along the East Coast Road in Tamil Nadu, a premier hub for maritime education and research in India.
Abstract submissions, paper guidelines, and registration details are available on the official conference website. Researchers and professionals are encouraged to participate and contribute to shaping the future of the global maritime industry.
Marex Media