Commissioned in 2003 as India’s first greenfield container terminal within a non-major port, MICT has grown into a critical gateway for containerised trade. The terminal has handled more than 19 million containers to date, including 1.4 million TEU in 2024, serving key industrial and consumption centres across western and northern India.

MICT connects India to 73 global ports and handles ultra-large container vessels of up to 19,200 TEU, supported by multimodal rail connectivity across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. This has enhanced supply chain efficiency, enabling Indian businesses to compete more effectively in global markets.

The research, conducted by Oxford Economics, highlights the scale of MICT’s contribution to India’s trade ecosystem and regional economy, including:

• GDP contribution: MICT contributed $128.9 million to India’s GDP in 2024, including $118.8 million within Gujarat
• Employment: The terminal supported approximately 1,880 jobs nationwide, including 1,240 in Gujarat, while driving economic activity across logistics, transportation, manufacturing, retail and services
• Long-term economic impact: Enhanced shipping connectivity through MICT is forecast to drive an additional $6.4 billion in exports and a $9.2 billion GDP impact by 2035

MICT is contributing to the development of a more inclusive and future-ready workforce, including:

• Women in logistics: Nearly one in four jobs associated with the terminal are held by women, reflecting strong participation across the wider ecosystem
• Youth opportunities: Around 10% of employees are under the age of 25, highlighting growing opportunities for young talent in a traditionally male-dominated sector
• Workforce inclusion: DP World continues to advance inclusivity across its operations while working towards a more diverse and representative workforce

At DP World Mundra, faster and more reliable trade is being enabled alongside the creation of better jobs, stronger skills and expanded opportunities for businesses and communities. Through its integrated network of ports, terminals and multimodal logistics infrastructure, DP World is strengthening connectivity between India’s hinterland and coastal gateways, helping businesses access global markets more efficiently.

Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager, DP World Subcontinent (India), said, “When infrastructure is built for scale, efficiency and connectivity, it becomes a powerful driver of both economic growth and social progress. At DP World Mundra, we are enabling faster, more reliable trade while creating better jobs, building skills and expanding opportunities for businesses and communities.”

The Oxford Economics report concludes that MICT’s impact extends far beyond port operations. By enabling trade, generating employment, supporting exports and investing in communities, DP World Mundra is playing a pivotal role in shaping sustainable economic growth and opportunity in Gujarat and across India. DP World continues to invest in the long-term development of communities around Mundra through education, scholarships and healthcare initiatives, including:

• Digital learning: Through the ‘Kal Ki Kaksha’ programme, implemented with Pratham Infotech Foundation, the company enabled digital learning for 3,643 students across 17 schools in 2024, with strong participation from girls
• Financial assistance: The Pragati Scholarship Programme in partnership with Yuva Unstoppable, supports 237 girls, helping reduce dropout rates and promote continued education
• Healthcare: Two Mobile Medical Vans in collaboration with the Wockhardt Foundation, deliver free medical services to around 20,000 people each year, focused on early diagnosis, treatment and community health awareness

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ANNEXURE

Case Study: Improving Access to Global Recycled Paper Markets

For local businesses in Gujarat such as Aten Papers and Foam Limited, improved port and inland connectivity through Mundra have enabled more efficient sourcing of recyclable materials from international markets, supporting growth in domestic recycling and manufacturing.

Mohammad Arif Lakhani, Director, Aten Papers, said, “India is heavily dependent on recycled paper, but local supply remains limited. Through Mundra Port, we have been able to source wastepaper from global markets more efficiently, supported by DP World’s reliable rail and inland connectivity in the region. Improved trade infrastructure has helped us grow our recycling-led paper business responsibly, reducing waste, protecting natural resources while creating stable livelihoods in the community.”

The findings form part of the DP World Effect, a global research programme that explores how trade infrastructure creates economic growth, jobs and community impacts across DP World’s network in more than 80 countries.

In the presence of the Prime Minister of Greece, Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Union of Greek Shipowners President Mrs. Melina Travlos, ministers and deputy ministers from maritime nations around the world, the Secretary-General of the IMO, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, and the President of Panama Mr. José Raúl Mullino and members of his cabinet, the official opening ceremony of Posidonia 2026 took place at the main conference hall of Athens Metropolitan Expo.

Posidonia 2026 is the largest edition in the exhibition’s history, with 2,227 exhibitors from 83 countries and territories and a record 24 national pavilions – including the official return of Germany and Italy after a long absence – spread across 45,000 square metres of gross leasable area at the Athens Metropolitan Expo. The 2026 conference and seminars programme comprises some 70 shipping conferences, forums and seminars, many of which are being held outside the exhibition venue for the first time due to unprecedented demand.

The organisers are ready to welcome more than 40,000 participants to the exhibition centre through Friday, 5 June 2026. The total economic turnover generated by Posidonia 2026 for the Greek economy is expected to significantly exceed €100 million, benefiting hospitality, event management, transport and catering sectors, as well as reflecting the extended stays of international visitors attending the expanded conference programme and the Posidonia Games sporting events.

Prime Minister of Greece, Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, addressing representatives of Greek and international media and more than 800 leading figures of the global maritime community at the opening ceremony, said: “Greek shipping constitutes a national and European asset that must be safeguarded, especially at a time when the strategic and geopolitical importance of shipping is being highlighted more strongly than ever in recent years. It is a source of strength for our country, linked to the resilience and strategic autonomy not only of Greece but also of Europe, making our nation a significant player with a pivotal role on the international stage.

“The foresight, realism, and courage that brought Greek shipping to the top will continue to be its greatest strengths in facing the challenges ahead. I will reiterate that, along this path, the Greek state will remain an ally and supporter, recognizing both the immense importance of Greek shipping for our country and the increasingly critical role it plays in international security and economic stability.”

Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, said: “Freedom of navigation means safe and unimpeded passage – without coercion, without discrimination, regardless of the flag a vessel flies. And its importance is immense. Shipping carries 76% of the European Union’s imports and 73% of its exports. Even within Europe, it accounts for nearly one third of all freight transport. The value of the EU’s maritime imports alone reaches €1.3 trillion annually. Europe has more than 300 shipyards and 28,000 marine equipment manufacturers. These figures prove one thing clearly: without ships, without ports, there is no competitive Europe. That is precisely why, before the Middle East Crisis erupted, I presented two new pivotal EU strategies: the European Industrial Strategy for Shipping and the Strategy for European Ports. Because ahead of us lies a unique opportunity – to ensure that Europe does not merely follow global developments, but leads them.”

Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), spoke about the full range of issues topping the global maritime community agenda, from freedom of navigation, seafarers’ well being, decarbonisation, digitalisation focusing his speech on the major geopolitical issues impacting the world economy: “Today’s situation in the Middle East – including tensions in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz – presents serious challenges for global shipping, energy security and supply chains. It is impossible to overlook the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy chokepoint, with disruption and stalling of trade. We should remember that the region was responsible for handling around 20 million barrels of oil per day; 25% of global seaborne oil trade; nearly 20% of global LNG trade; and one third of the fertilizer trade. At the same time, insecurity in the Red Sea has disrupted trade through the Suez Canal, which in usual times carries 12–15% of global trade and 20% of global container traffic.”

Mrs Melina Travlos, President of the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS) said: “Let us be pragmatists: Without freedom of navigation, there can be no global prosperity. Without safe and secure sea lanes, there can be no secure global trade.Without a strong shipping industry, there can be no resilient economy.And without realism, there can be no sustainable green transition.”

On behalf of the organisers, Mr. Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A., said: “The closure and disruption of critical shipping lanes has once again shown the fragility of global supply chains. Recent developments have highlighted a simple but powerful truth: without shipping, the world stops. Energy cannot flow, industries cannot function, economies cannot sustain momentum. But even in this environment, shipping still delivered. 24/7. Resilient as ever. Shipping has once again proven that it is the backbone of global trade and a cornerstone of stability in an ever-changing world. In this context, Posidonia 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment.  This is not only an industry gathering, but a global forum where leaders meet, challenges are discussed and the future shaped.”

The growing technological transformation of shipping is strongly reflected at Posidonia 2026, with more than 30 exhibitors showcasing Artificial Intelligence applications designed specifically for maritime operations, and 100 exhibitors presenting environmental technologies in support of the industry’s journey toward zero emissions.

Nuclear energy as a potential maritime fuel is also emerging as a key agenda topic, with a high-level event set to examine the role of advanced nuclear technologies in commercial shipping and near-shore power generation.

The Posidonia Games have further expanded this year with the introduction of the Posidonia Tour cycling race, with proceeds from all sporting events continuing to support charitable organisations and NGOs.

Posidonia 2026 has received ISO certification as a sustainable event for the third consecutive edition, remaining the first exhibition in Greece to achieve this distinction, reflecting the organisers’ ongoing commitment to minimising environmental impact and maximising economic benefit for the local economy and businesses.

Posidonia 2026 is organised under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping and the Union of Greek Shipowners, with the support of the Municipality of Piraeus and the Greek Shipping Co-operation Committee.

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The Royal Bombay Seamen’s Society (RBSS) marked a significant milestone in its long history of seafarer welfare with the inauguration of the newly refurbished rooms at the Prince of Wales Seamen’s Club in Ballard Estate, Mumbai. The event brought together senior maritime leaders, welfare representatives and members of the shipping community to witness the completion of Phase 1 of a larger modernization programme aimed at upgrading the nearly century-old institution while preserving its maritime heritage.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Guest Mr Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping and Chairman of the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS), and Guest of Honour Capt BK Tyagi, CMD of The Shipping Corporation of India. The event also highlighted the continuing importance of welfare infrastructure for seafarers at a time when the maritime industry is increasingly focusing on crew wellbeing, mental health and quality living standards.

The Prince of Wales Seamen’s Club has long served as an important welfare and accommodation facility for seafarers visiting Mumbai. Operated by RBSS, the institution traces its roots back to the Bombay Harbour Mission and Seamen’s Institute before formally becoming The Royal Bombay Seamen’s Society in 1930 after receiving Royal Patronage from King George V. Since its inception, the society has focused on providing affordable accommodation, recreation and support services for seafarers visiting the port city.

During the event, Capt OP Dhondiyal, Honorary Secretary of RBSS, spoke about the vision behind the phased modernization initiative and the need to upgrade facilities that had gradually begun showing signs of age. While the club remained operational, common complaints from seafarers were related to outdated accommodation, damaged flooring and aging infrastructure that no longer reflected modern expectations of comfort and utility.

“Our commitment to seafarers has remained unchanged since the society’s inception — to provide comfortable accommodation in Mumbai at a moderate cost. With this phased modernization, we are upgrading a century-old facility through careful planning and professional expertise, while ensuring seafarers continue receiving the welfare and support, they deserve,” said Capt Dhondiyal.

He emphasized that the modernization was carefully planned rather than undertaken in an ad hoc manner. Since the club continues to accommodate seafarers throughout the renovation process, RBSS adopted a phased execution strategy to ensure uninterrupted services. To support the project professionally, the society appointed a Chartered Engineer with expertise in architecture and construction management as Project Management Consultant (PMC).

The first phase of the project was completed on 20 March 2026 and included the refurbishment of 18 rooms with attached washrooms at a cost of approximately Rs. 2 crore. The work took around nine months to complete. The next phase, already underway, will focus on upgrading an additional 27 rooms and is expected to be completed within the next 10 to 11 months. Plans are also in place to renovate the building façade and common areas after the monsoon season.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Jagannathan highlighted the broader importance of modernizing maritime welfare infrastructure across India while preserving the heritage associated with long-standing seafarer institutions. He reflected on the need to create welfare spaces that provide dignity, comfort and pride to maritime professionals and noted that such projects require collective support from industry stakeholders and welfare organizations.

“We are committed to transforming seafarers’ welfare infrastructure into spaces of pride, dignity and comfort while preserving India’s maritime heritage. Through modernization, digital transformation and collective support, we aim to create quality facilities for seafarers across the coastline and ensure they receive the respect and care they truly deserve,” said Mr. Jagannathan.

The event not only celebrated the completion of Phase 1 but also reinforced the growing recognition within the maritime sector that seafarer welfare facilities must evolve alongside the industry itself. With modernization now underway, RBSS is positioning the Prince of Wales Seamen’s Club to continue serving future generations of seafarers while retaining its historic identity at the heart of Mumbai’s maritime community.

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No alien to expending her time, passion and energies on motor drives through the country, Ms Suchita Javadekar is now a veteran of repute in the maritime industry who has proved to be an effective messenger for raising awareness of both, the merchant navy as well as early cancer detection in women.

Suchita recently completed the 4th Edition of the “Women on Wheels” through the Northeast of India, chalking up an impressive 16 such motor drives through various parts of the nation.

Here’s a more detailed report.

Women on Wheels & Northeast on Wheels – Season 4 successfully united adventure, culture, and women’s empowerment during an unforgettable expedition across India’s Northeast. Far more than a road trip, this journey served as a profound space for reflection, connection, and breaking boundaries.

The inspiring expedition commenced with an orientation session in Guwahati, where strangers quickly transformed into lifelong companions. On April 25 this year, the Grand Flag-Off took place at the Premier Mega Hub in Jorabat, Meghalaya. Attended by Chief Guest Mr Nitin Bhatnagar (Executive Director & State Head, Indian Oil) and Guest of Honour Capt Yashika Tyagi (Retd.), the ceremony infused the participants with pride, purpose, and a shared celebration of female resilience.

Cultural Immersion and Heritage

The Kameng Group of which Suchita was a part, navigated a breathtaking route encompassing Pakke Tiger Reserve, Dhalpur, Majuli, Nagaon, Umiam, and Shillong. Beyond the scenic landscapes, the expedition was defined by profound human connections. Participants received a heartfelt welcome at the West Bank of Pakke Tiger Reserve, setting the tone for the deep cultural exchanges that followed.

The riders actively engaged with the communities preserving the Northeast’s heritage. They interacted with local farmers, bamboo artisans, and handloom weavers, witnessing firsthand the intricate skill and patience woven into regional crafts. Visits to Chakma tribal villages offered a glimpse into a lifestyle rooted in community and tradition, while an insightful meeting with Award-Winning Assamese film director Reema Borah sparked powerful conversations regarding identity and women’s voices in cinema.

The journey also featured moments of solemn reflection, including paying homage to freedom fighter Kanaklata Barua at Gohpur.

Maritime Awareness on Wheels

Among the more dynamic explorers was Suchita, a seasoned rally driver who proudly represents three generations of seafarers in her family. Recognized during the event for her consistency and long-standing dedication to purposeful driving, Suchita utilized the platform to bridge the gap between regional youth and maritime careers.

“The merchant navy is one of the world’s oldest professions and continues to be the backbone of modern global trade. It is important that we all recognise, honour, appreciate the maritime field and its seafarers, whose work and sacrifices drive maritime transport that brings food, energy, and health products to our very doorsteps,” Suchita shared.

Her vehicle proudly displayed the logos of key supporters advocating for maritime excellence and female empowerment, including The Maritime Union of India (MUI), AMET University, MAERSK, Searland Management Services, and Marex Media Pvt Ltd.

The expedition reached a prestigious milestone at Lok Bhawan, where participants interacted with the Hon’ble Governor of Nagaland, Mr Nandkishore Yadav, reinforcing the rally’s core mission of leadership.

The grand closing ceremony in Shillong did not signify an end, but rather a beginning. United by adventure and a willingness to step outside their comfort zones, these diverse women forged unbreakable bonds of camaraderie. They returned home transformed, carrying invaluable stories of empowerment, cultural appreciation, and a renewed spirit of exploration.

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A remarkable initiative led by Capt. Sanjay Prashar, CEO of VR Maritime Services Pvt. Ltd., is creating new opportunities for young people from rural Himachal Pradesh by connecting them with careers in the Merchant Navy. Through a combination of awareness programmes, transparent recruitment practices, and industry partnerships, more than 105 youths from the state have received sponsorships for maritime training courses, offering them a pathway to stable employment and long-term career growth.
The sponsored candidates will undergo GP Rating and CCMC courses at leading maritime training institutes including TS Rahaman Mumbai, HIMT Chennai, Marine Engineering Institute (MEI) Kolkata, and NUSI Goa. Upon successful completion of their training, they are assured placement through VR Maritime Services, with a waiting period of only 60 days. The company also supports many candidates during their mandatory onboard training period, further easing their transition into professional seafaring careers.

As a native of Himachal Pradesh, Capt. Prashar recognised the challenges faced by rural youth seeking maritime employment. Despite a significant proportion of India’s GP Ratings coming from rural backgrounds, many aspiring seafarers continue to encounter misinformation, fraudulent recruitment agents, and limited access to authentic guidance. To address these issues, VR Maritime established two guidance offices in Himachal Pradesh that assist approximately 25 young people every day.

A major milestone in the initiative was the organisation of a Rozgar Mela in Kangra district in February 2026, conducted in collaboration with four maritime training institutes. The event attracted 506 registrations, including 76 women candidates, and facilitated direct interaction between aspiring seafarers and industry representatives. The programme resulted in over 100 sponsorships across courses such as GP Rating, CCMC, OCCP, and BNF, while also creating opportunities for women candidates within the maritime sector.

Reflecting on the broader impact of the initiative, Capt. Prashar said, “Merchant Navy has the power to transform rural India. Our aim is to ensure that every young person gets accurate information, transparent recruitment, and a fair opportunity without paying agents. When seafarers earn at sea and invest back in their villages, entire communities grow and prosper.”
By promoting transparent recruitment and supporting Maritime India Vision 2030, the initiative is not only creating careers but also strengthening rural communities through sustainable economic development.

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As someone involved in maritime mental health, wellbeing, and psychological safety, I have observed with interest the strong reactions generated by a recent social media reel that quickly found its way into various maritime WhatsApp groups and online discussions. The intensity of the responses indicates that our industry is becoming increasingly conscious of issues related to gender, respect, and professional conduct. While opinions may differ regarding the intent behind the post, perhaps the more important question is not whether we agree or disagree with it, but what we can learn from the conversation it has sparked. Instead of focusing solely on the individual who created the content, we have an opportunity to reflect on the broader cultural and educational challenges that it has brought to the surface. Constructive dialogue often emerges from moments of discomfort, and this may be one such moment for the maritime community.

The maritime industry today is more connected than ever before. Increased internet access onboard vessels have enabled seafarers to stay connected with family, access information, and engage with the wider world through social media platforms. These developments have brought undeniable benefits, particularly in supporting morale and reducing feelings of isolation at sea.

However, social media is no longer merely a communication tool; it is also a powerful influencer of attitudes, perceptions, and behaviours. Viral content, jokes, memes, comments, and short videos can subtly shape opinions and normalize certain behaviours without viewers fully realizing their impact. In a profession that relies heavily on teamwork, trust, mutual respect, and effective communication, the messages consumed online can influence interactions onboard. This makes digital literacy and responsible social media engagement important competencies for modern seafarers. Rather than viewing social media solely as a source of risk, the industry should focus on educating seafarers about digital professionalism, responsible online conduct, privacy, cyber security, and the consequences that online behaviour can have on workplace culture.

An equally important aspect of this conversation is gender awareness. Despite encouraging progress in recent years, women remain significantly underrepresented in the maritime workforce and continue to face barriers ranging from unconscious bias to exclusion and, in some cases, harassment. Content that objectifies women or reinforces outdated gender stereotypes—even when intended as humour—can contribute to a culture that makes some individuals feel less respected or less valued. The challenge is not simply about identifying inappropriate content; it is about understanding how repeated exposure to certain messages can shape workplace attitudes. Education programmes, leadership training, and crew development initiatives should therefore include discussions on gender sensitivity, unconscious bias, respectful communication, and diversity. Such conversations should not be viewed as compliance exercises but as opportunities to develop empathy, awareness, and emotional intelligence. When seafarers understand the impact of their words and actions on others, they are better equipped to contribute to healthier and more inclusive workplaces.

The strong reactions to this recent social media post may therefore be viewed not as a controversy to be forgotten, but as an awakening for the maritime community. It highlights the need for greater dialogue about the intersection of social media, workplace culture, and gender inclusion. Creating lasting change requires moving beyond criticism and towards education, reflection, and engagement. Masters, officers, senior crew members, training institutions, and maritime organizations all have a role to play in modelling respectful behaviour and fostering psychologically safe environments. The goal should not be to shame individuals or create divisions within the profession, but to strengthen understanding and encourage positive change.

The future of maritime depends on attracting and retaining a diverse workforce, and that future can only be achieved when every seafarer—regardless of gender—feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute. If this incident encourages meaningful conversations and greater awareness, it may ultimately serve a purpose far greater than the social media post itself.

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The National Maritime Day Celebrations (NMDC) Committee, under the aegis of the Directorate General of Shipping, commemorated the International Day for Women in Maritime on 18^th May at the Maritime Training Institute (MTI) in Powai, Mumbai, bringing together maritime leaders, policymakers, educators, seafarers and cadets to celebrate the growing contribution of women across the maritime ecosystem. Held in line with the IMO’s 2026 global theme, “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence”, the event focused on transforming conversations around inclusion into tangible industry action.

The celebration highlighted the expanding presence of women across shipping, ports, logistics, maritime education, sustainability, digitalisation and seafarer welfare, while also recognising professionals who have demonstrated leadership, innovation and excellence within the industry. The event reflected the broader momentum led globally by the International Maritime Organization to increase visibility, opportunities and leadership pathways for women in maritime.

Welcoming delegates, Mr. S.M. Rai, Former Chairman of IMEI Mumbai Branch, highlighted India’s rich maritime legacy and emphasized the increasing opportunities being created for women through initiatives in shipbuilding, green shipping, maritime training and seafarer development. He also acknowledged initiatives such as “Sagar Mein Samman” and praised the efforts of the women’s wing of NMDC, SCI and DG Shipping in promoting inclusion.

In a special message, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, highlighted the rising contribution of women across seafaring, engineering, policymaking and maritime entrepreneurship, while reaffirming India’s commitment to building a more inclusive maritime sector through initiatives linked to port modernisation, the blue economy and sustainable growth.

IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusion in shaping a resilient maritime future, while Ms. Ashwini Bhide, IAS, Municipal Commissioner of BMC, underlined the need to translate policy commitments into meaningful workplace opportunities and leadership roles for women. As she noted, “Women today are not only participating in maritime; they are shaping its future through leadership, innovation and resilience. Advancing gender equality is not merely a policy objective, but a commitment to creating inclusive opportunities and building a sustainable, future-ready maritime ecosystem for generations to come.”

Chief Guest Mr. Sushil Mansing Khopde, IPS, Additional Director General of Shipping, stressed that inclusive growth is impossible without women’s equal participation in maritime. Highlighting initiatives such as “Sagar Mein Samman” scholarship programmes for women cadets and mental wellness initiatives like “Sagar Mein Yog” he encouraged women to break societal barriers and pursue leadership roles confidently. He remarked, “If we truly want the maritime sector to grow, we must ensure equal participation of women. Safety, dignity, opportunity and inclusion are not optional — they are essential. The biggest barrier is often in the mind; once that shackle is broken, women can achieve the highest levels in maritime and beyond.”

A major highlight of the event was the panel discussion moderated by Ms. Ambika Singh, Senior Marketing Manager at JNPA, on “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality in Maritime.” The panel featured prominent maritime professionals including Ms. Sanjam Sahi Gupta, Ms. Saleha Shaikh, Chief Engineer Ms. Puja Kumari and Ms. Meghana Menon, who discussed accountability, safety, mentorship, onboard infrastructure, career visibility and the need for long-term support systems to retain women in maritime careers.

The event also featured impactful presentations by Mr. Bhooshan Malkani on Maersk’s “Equal at Sea” initiative and by Mr. V.A. Kamath of TS Rahman on the institute’s successful women ratings training programme conducted in partnership with Maersk. Together, the initiatives highlighted how structured training, scholarships, mentorship and industry collaboration are creating sustainable pathways for women from diverse backgrounds to enter maritime professions.

The programme further included cultural performances by cadets from various maritime institutes, the screening of a short film on “Sagar Mein Samman,” presentations on the initiative’s five-year roadmap by Dr. Kusum Kanwar and Ms. Ambika Singh, and inspiring success stories from young Indian women cadets. Distinguished women professionals including Mrs. Manisha Umakant Jadhav, Ms. Jhanvi Mehta, Chief Engineer Ms. Puja Kumari and Mrs. Aishwarya Gupta Pilankar were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to the maritime sector.

The event also witnessed the launch of “Samudra Lehar”, a publication initiative by Mrs. Bharati Bhandarkar dedicated to showcasing the achievements and leadership journeys of women in maritime. The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Sudhir Kohakade, reaffirming the industry’s collective commitment towards building a safer, more inclusive and future-ready maritime ecosystem for women.

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Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal chaired a high-level review meeting of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways following the Prime Minister-led Council of Ministers meeting, outlining an ambitious reform-driven agenda aimed at accelerating India’s maritime transformation in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Viksit Bharat 2047” vision.

The meeting focused on strengthening governance, improving ease of doing business, enhancing digital integration, ensuring effective grievance redressal, and fast-tracking implementation of key maritime initiatives through structured monitoring and accountability mechanisms. As part of the reform push, the Minister announced the launch of a nationwide “Maritime Reform Utsav” to commemorate 12 years of transformation in India’s maritime sector under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

The proposed celebration will showcase India’s progress in ports, shipping, inland waterways, coastal infrastructure, green shipping, digitalisation, and maritime connectivity, reflecting the country’s emergence as a globally competitive maritime nation. Sonowal stated that India’s maritime sector has undergone unprecedented transformation through the government’s “Reform, Perform, Transform and Inform” approach.

A major outcome of the meeting was the decision to develop an integrated digital platform and mobile application under the aegis of the Directorate General of Shipping. The platform is expected to provide real-time service delivery, digital documentation, stakeholder interaction, integrated maritime services, and an enhanced grievance redressal mechanism through a unified digital ecosystem.

The Minister also directed officials to establish a dedicated monitoring and coordination mechanism for speedy disposal of grievances, legal matters, and pending ministry cases through periodic reviews and inter-agency coordination. Emphasis was laid on improving stakeholder outreach, strengthening industry consultations, enhancing skill development, and leveraging Artificial Intelligence and data-driven governance for greater operational efficiency.

The review further underlined the importance of stronger coordination among ministries, state governments, ports, maritime institutions, and industry stakeholders to accelerate project implementation and support India’s long-term vision of becoming a leading global maritime and logistics hub.

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Saudi Arabia has taken another significant step towards strengthening its regional maritime network and logistics ambitions with the launch of new cargo shipping services connecting key ports across the Red Sea, Gulf region, and East Africa. The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) recently inaugurated a new shipping service linking Jeddah Islamic Port with the Port of Salalah in Oman and the Port of Djibouti, reinforcing the Kingdom’s efforts to position itself as a major logistics and transshipment hub under its Vision 2030 strategy.

The newly launched service, with a carrying capacity of up to 1,730 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), is designed to enhance import and export connectivity while expanding Saudi Arabia’s maritime links with regional and global ports. The initiative comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and continued disruption around the Strait of Hormuz following the ongoing US-Iran conflict, which has significantly impacted shipping routes, energy markets, and global supply chains.

In parallel, Mawani has also introduced the “Red Sea Express” service linking Jeddah and Yanbu with Egypt’s Ain Sokhna and Jordan’s Aqaba ports. The service offers a capacity of 1,100 TEUs and is expected to improve regional cargo movement, strengthen trade integration, and provide alternative maritime corridors amid growing uncertainty in the Gulf region.

Saudi Arabia has been accelerating investments in port infrastructure, logistics parks, shipping connectivity, and multimodal trade corridors as part of its long-term economic diversification agenda. By enhancing connectivity between Asia, Africa, and Europe, the Kingdom aims to establish itself as a critical gateway for global trade while improving supply-chain resilience across the region.

The latest shipping services highlight Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on developing alternative maritime routes and expanding regional logistics capabilities at a time when geopolitical instability continues to reshape international shipping patterns and trade flows.

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