Jagdamba Prasad Pandey –
The AAROHAN International Maritime Conference, organised by Integrated Maritime Exchange (IME), brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss the impact of AI, investment in maritime start-ups, and the future of commercial shipping. Held in Dehradun on March 22, the conference aimed to bridge the gap between industry, academia, and technology in the maritime sector.
Dr Meenakshi Sundaram, Principal Secretary of Energy, Uttarakhand, emphasized the transformative role of AI in shipping. He highlighted how AI improves efficiency, accuracy, and operational decision-making, making shipping more structured and reliable. The Uttarakhand government assured support for maritime businesses and start-ups, recognising their role in economic growth.
Dr Deepak Murari, Joint Director of Industries, Uttarakhand, encouraged shipping companies and entrepreneurs to establish start-ups in the state. He noted that Uttarakhand offers a promising ecosystem for maritime entrepreneurs, with government funding and support available.
Key takeaways from the panel discussions included the need for the maritime industry to adopt an updated education system that integrates AI, digital tools, and real-world simulations. This would facilitate stronger collaboration between universities, training institutes, and shipping companies, ultimately leading to the development of industry-ready professionals.
Furthermore, the panel emphasised that India must modernise its ports, streamline policies, and invest in skill development to compete globally. The adoption of digitalisation and AI would enable Indian shipping companies to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
The transformative role of AI in shipping was also highlighted, as it automates ship operations, chartering, and maritime finance, leading to cost savings and operational efficiency. Companies were encouraged to adopt AI-powered tools for voyage estimation, cargo tracking, and predictive maintenance.
Additionally, the panel noted that maritime tech start-ups in India are still underdeveloped, despite the country being the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem. Venture capitalists are particularly interested in AI, automation, and digital freight solutions, which presents opportunities for growth and innovation in the sector.
The AAROHAN International Maritime Conference marked a significant milestone in the maritime industry, fostering collaboration and innovation among industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators. As the maritime sector continues to evolve, conferences like AAROHAN will play a crucial role in shaping its future.
Marex Media