The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has directed all major ports, minor ports and State Maritime Boards across India to submit consolidated information on abandoned, detained, arrested, disabled and other non-operational vessels within 15 days of the issuance of its latest circular. The move aims to strengthen maritime safety, improve monitoring of vessels posing operational risks and maintain a comprehensive record of ships that could threaten port infrastructure, navigation and the marine environment. Issued on 9 November 2026, the notice calls for port authorities to identify vessels within their respective jurisdictions and areas of control, including port limits, berths, anchorages and port approaches. The reporting exercise covers abandoned or suspected abandoned vessels, ships detained by Port State Control or other statutory authorities, and vessels arrested or restrained under court orders or legal proceedings. The directive also extends to vessels that are immobilised, disabled, laid-up, stranded, grounded, drifting, unmanned or otherwise unable to operate safely. Additionally, ports must report any other vessels whose condition, location or circumstances could pose risks to people, maritime security, port operations, infrastructure or the environment. Comprehensive Vessel-Wise Reporting Under the circular, port authorities are required to submit vessel-wise information in the prescribed Annexure-I format. The details must include vessel particulars, identification numbers, type, flag, present location, operational status and the reason and duration of the vessel's non-operational condition. Authorities must also furnish information about the shipowner, operator, manager and agent, along with relevant contact details. Particular attention has been given to seafarer welfare, with ports required to report the number of people on board, their broad particulars and any concerns relating to wages, provisions, medical assistance or repatriation. The reporting format further requires details of the vessel's operational condition, defects, cargo and bunker fuel levels, wherever relevant. Any potential impact on navigation, port infrastructure, ongoing operations, maritime security or pollution must also be highlighted. Ports are expected to document the action already taken, agencies informed, the vessel's current status and any assistance or coordination required from DGMA or other competent authorities. Importantly, the reporting requirement applies irrespective of whether crew members or other personnel remain onboard or whether the vessel has been formally declared abandoned. Information that is unavailable can be marked as 'Not Known'. Immediate Reporting of Fresh Cases Beyond the initial submission, DGMA has established an ongoing reporting mechanism. Any fresh case involving vessels that fall under the specified categories, particularly those presenting an immediate or potential threat to life, port safety, navigation or the marine environment, must be reported to the regulator immediately. Port authorities must also promptly communicate material developments in existing cases and provide periodic updates until the matter is resolved or the vessel no longer falls within the circular's scope. Even ports with no such vessels or cases within their jurisdiction are required to submit a NIL report. The circular clarifies that the information-sharing exercise does not override existing court orders or directions issued by competent statutory authorities. Through this initiative, DGMA seeks to establish a more coordinated monitoring framework for vessels of safety concern in Indian waters, supporting seafarer welfare, uninterrupted port operations and environmentally responsible maritime activities. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

India is looking to strengthen coastal shipping and inland waterways as key components of its multimodal logistics network, with the Centre setting an ambitious target of doubling their combined share in freight transportation to 12% by 2047. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal outlined the roadmap during a Consultative Committee meeting in Puri, Odisha, on 3 November 2026. The proposed expansion is aimed at shifting a greater volume of cargo from road and rail networks to waterways, improving logistics efficiency, reducing transportation costs and supporting more sustainable freight movement. Alongside the freight target, the government has announced a series of infrastructure and policy initiatives, including a proposed ₹1,500-crore international cruise terminal in Puri. India's maritime strategy is also gaining momentum, with coastal cargo volumes witnessing substantial growth over the past decade. According to Sonowal, cargo handled through coastal shipping at Indian ports has increased from 74 million tonnes to 177 million tonnes in the last 12 years, registering growth of approximately 140%. The country’s coastline of more than 11,000 km offers considerable potential to expand maritime freight movement and improve connectivity between industrial centres, ports and consumption markets. Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme to Drive Modal Shift A key component of the government's strategy is the Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme, announced in the Union Budget 2026–27. The scheme will provide incentives to cargo owners, coastal vessel operators and multimodal transport operators to encourage greater utilisation of coastal shipping and inland waterways. By promoting the movement of goods through a combination of waterways, rail and road, the initiative seeks to strengthen multimodal connectivity and make freight transportation more efficient. The broader objective is to reduce dependence on conventional road-based transportation, ease pressure on highways and improve the environmental sustainability of India's logistics network. The government is also planning to operationalise 20 additional National Waterways over the next five years, further expanding the country's inland water transport infrastructure. National Waterway-5 to Strengthen Odisha's Industrial Connectivity Sonowal also highlighted the development of National Waterway-5 (NW-5) in Odisha, an infrastructure project estimated to cost more than ₹13,000 crore. The proposed waterway will connect important mineral-producing and industrial centres, including Talcher, Angul and Kalinganagar, with the eastern coast's major ports, particularly Paradip and Dhamra. Integrating the Brahmani and Mahanadi river systems, the waterway is expected to create additional cargo transportation options for the state's mining, manufacturing and industrial sectors. Improved river-sea connectivity could also help reduce the logistical burden on existing road and rail corridors. To support the expansion of inland water transportation, the government is working towards developing Regional Centres of Excellence along National Waterway-5 and establishing dedicated inland vessel repair facilities in Varanasi and Patna. ₹1,500-Crore Puri International Cruise Terminal Announced Alongside freight infrastructure, the government is looking to strengthen India's cruise tourism ecosystem. Sonowal announced that the proposed Puri International Cruise Terminal will be developed by Paradip Port Authority (PPA) in partnership with the Government of Odisha, with an estimated investment of ₹1,500 crore. The project is expected to support the expansion of cruise tourism in Odisha and strengthen the state's position on India's emerging maritime tourism map. The development aligns with the Cruise Bharat Mission, launched in September 2024, which aims to attract one million sea cruise passengers and generate 400,000 jobs by March 2029. India recorded 462,661 ocean cruise passengers and 212 vessel calls during FY2025–26. On the inland waterways front, 20 river cruise circuits across 16 National Waterways are already operational, while another 51 circuits have been identified for phased development. Additionally, 143 river cruise terminals and landing points are currently operational. Focus on Employment and Sustainable Maritime Growth The Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme and Cruise Bharat Mission are expected to collectively generate more than 560,000 employment opportunities and help avoid approximately 16 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, according to the government. The twin initiatives reflect India's broader ambition to develop a competitive and sustainable maritime ecosystem by strengthening cargo transportation, expanding port infrastructure and promoting cruise tourism. With the 2047 freight target, additional National Waterway development and investments in cruise infrastructure, the government is seeking to unlock the economic potential of India's coastline and river networks. The success of these initiatives will depend on effective infrastructure development, multimodal integration and sustained participation from cargo owners and logistics operators. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Tuticorin Container Terminal (TCT), operated by J M Baxi Ports & Logistics, has handled a cumulative 500,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) since commencing commercial operations in September 2024. The achievement marks an important milestone in the terminal’s operational journey and reflects its growing contribution to containerised cargo movement through V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Tamil Nadu. Reaching the half-million TEU mark within approximately two years highlights the terminal’s progress in strengthening container-handling capabilities and supporting India's maritime trade infrastructure. The milestone also underscores the increasing importance of Tuticorin as a gateway for export-import (EXIM) cargo and coastal shipping along India's southeastern coastline. Inaugurated on September 16, 2024, by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Tuticorin International Container Terminal was developed with an investment of over ₹434 crore. The facility has an annual handling capacity of 600,000 TEUs and became the port’s third container terminal, adding significant capacity to its container-handling infrastructure. Spread across approximately 10 hectares, the terminal features a 370-metre quay and a berth with a draft of up to 14.2 metres. Its equipment infrastructure includes three rail-mounted quay cranes and nine rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes to support vessel operations, container movement and yard management. The facility caters to both international and coastal cargo, with road and rail connectivity linking it to industrial and commercial centres across southern India. A notable aspect of the milestone is the contribution of the terminal's workforce, particularly women employees who are involved across operational and administrative functions, including leadership positions. The terminal has acknowledged their role in supporting its operational performance and development. It has also recognised the continued cooperation of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, vessel operators, shipping lines, customers and other business partners in achieving the milestone. The terminal's hinterland extends across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, while its proximity to international east-west shipping routes offers access to important maritime trade corridors. With the 500,000 TEU milestone achieved, TCT is positioned to further strengthen its role in regional container logistics, facilitate EXIM trade and contribute to the expansion of India's port-led economic growth. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Cochin Port’s growth exceeded the sector average by 10 percentage points, highlighting its expanding role in India’s maritime trade and container logistics network. The six-month performance strengthens the port’s position as a key gateway on India’s southwest coast, connecting regional businesses with domestic and international markets. The growth momentum was reinforced by a record performance in August 2026, when DP World Cochin’s ICTT handled 97,952 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), marking a 51% increase compared with August 2025. The terminal had handled 74,644 TEUs in June and 74,585 TEUs in July before volumes climbed to the August peak. Between June and August, the terminal also accommodated 51 additional, unscheduled vessel calls while maintaining regular operations. This demonstrated its ability to manage increased vessel traffic amid geopolitical disruptions affecting international shipping routes and cargo flows. The terminal’s infrastructure and operational capabilities are important to shipping lines seeking reliable cargo-handling services and connections for Indian export-import traffic. Sustaining the increase will depend on efficient vessel turnaround, cargo handling and coordination across port operations. Cochin Port’s latest performance builds on its established container-handling operations. During FY2024–25, the port handled 834,665 TEUs, compared with 754,237 TEUs in FY2023–24. Transshipment traffic reached 169,562 TEUs in FY2024–25, underlining the terminal’s role in transferring containers between vessels as well as supporting regional cargo movements. The port’s broader logistics infrastructure also contributes to its appeal. DP World has developed a Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) at Cochin, offering storage, consolidation and distribution facilities for export-import cargo. The integration of container handling and warehousing can help businesses coordinate inventory with shipping schedules and streamline cargo movement. For exporters, importers and logistics providers, such facilities can support more coordinated supply chains by bringing essential logistics services closer to the port. However, the long-term benefits of higher container throughput will also depend on dependable shipping connections, competitive logistics costs and efficient inland cargo evacuation. Cochin Port’s 22% container throughput growth places it ahead of India’s major ports in terms of growth rate for April–September 2026. The performance highlights the growing significance of Vallarpadam in the country’s maritime logistics ecosystem. Maintaining this momentum will require continued operational efficiency, strong shipping-line partnerships and effective integration with inland transport and warehousing networks. Converting the rise in volumes into sustained business growth could further strengthen Cochin’s role in facilitating international trade and improving supply chain connectivity. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) has invited domestic and international bids for developing the Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina, a full-service marina and integrated waterfront project at Victoria Dock in Mumbai. Estimated to cost ₹922.67 crore, the project aims to strengthen maritime tourism, yacht services and waterfront infrastructure while creating new opportunities for port-linked commercial activities. The project will be implemented under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model, with a concession period of 45 years. The proposed marina will cover a protected water area of 37.3 hectares and accommodate 604 yachts at full development, including 424 berths in the first phase. Mumbai Port Authority has already commenced marine works, including a piled breakwater with an approximately 150-metre approach trestle, six piled service platforms, floating pontoons and gangways for around 424 berths, along with capital dredging. Environmental and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearances have also been secured for the entire project area. The selected concessionaire will develop the landside infrastructure, expand berthing capacity beyond the first phase, and operate and maintain the marina throughout the concession period before transferring the assets to the port authority. Planned facilities include a marina terminal building, an international-standard sailing school, a yacht club, a yacht repair yard at Haji Bunder, dry-stack storage and a fuel station. The development will also feature a five-star hotel, tourism business centre, food and beverage outlets, retail zones, and dedicated space for boat shows and events. The tender follows a single-stage, two-envelope electronic bidding process. Bidders will be evaluated on the percentage of gross revenue they propose to share with Mumbai Port Authority, with the highest revenue-share offer determining the preferred bidder. Companies can participate individually or as part of a consortium comprising up to four members. The deadline for pre-bid queries is 28 October 2026, with pre-bid meetings scheduled for 30 October and 25 November. The final date for submitting bids is 15 December 2026. The marina forms part of Mumbai Port Authority’s broader strategy to expand cruise tourism, harbour services and waterfront development, complementing initiatives such as the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal and the city's water taxi network. The project is expected to connect Mumbai’s maritime heritage with sailing, yacht services, hospitality and tourism while retaining port safety and operational requirements as key priorities. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) has set a target of handling more than 170 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in the financial year 2026-27, building on its record throughput of 156.45 MMT in FY 2025-26. The target represents an increase of approximately 8.7% over the previous financial year, reinforcing the port’s ambition to strengthen its position as a leading maritime gateway on India’s eastern coast. PPA Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit announced the target during an interactive meeting with members of the Paradip Port Stevedores Association on 15 October 2026. The meeting, attended by heads of departments, focused on improving cargo-handling productivity, resolving operational bottlenecks and strengthening coordination among port stakeholders. Infrastructure Upgrades to Support Cargo Growth To facilitate higher cargo volumes, PPA reviewed several infrastructure improvement measures aimed at ensuring smoother cargo movement and more efficient port operations. These include upgrading roads within and outside the port premises, improving paved surfaces and developing suitable cargo-stacking areas to facilitate transportation and minimise waterlogging. Drainage improvements have also received approval, while better sanitation, hygiene and welfare facilities for workers and visitors remain part of the port’s efforts to improve conditions across its operational areas. Strengthening Operational Efficiency and Coordination The discussions also covered mechanisation, dredging requirements, traffic management and coordination between PPA, private terminal operators and stevedores. The authority emphasised the importance of integrating modern cargo-handling practices while safeguarding the business interests of traditional stevedoring operators. Purohit called for collective efforts from port officials and industry stakeholders to improve productivity and maintain competitiveness amid global economic uncertainties and increasing regional competition. Greater coordination among stakeholders is expected to help address operational challenges and support more consistent cargo movement. Building on Record Performance Paradip Port’s latest target follows its highest-ever annual cargo throughput since operations began in 1966. Achieving the FY 2026–27 goal will require sustained operational performance, reliable infrastructure and effective collaboration across the port’s cargo-handling ecosystem. The planned improvements underline the importance of combining infrastructure development with day-to-day operational efficiency. As cargo demand evolves, Paradip’s ability to streamline port operations and strengthen stakeholder coordination will be critical to achieving its growth target and supporting trade across eastern India. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

India is utilising the global platform of SMM Hamburg 2026 to deepen maritime cooperation with Germany, with a high-level Indian delegation undertaking strategic engagements with port authorities, terminal operators and maritime industry stakeholders in Hamburg. Led by Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), the delegation included Vipul Singhal, Director, MoPSW, and Pradeep Sudhakar, Chief Ship Surveyor, Directorate General of Shipping/Maritime Administration (DGMA). Their engagements focused on exchanging expertise and identifying opportunities for collaboration across port operations, maritime infrastructure, digitalisation and sustainability. A key component of the visit was an interaction at HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA), where the delegation examined advanced approaches to automated container-terminal operations. Discussions with Patrick Krawutschke, Managing Director, Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC), covered terminal efficiency, automation, logistics planning and the deployment of technology to improve port management. The delegation also visited EUROGATE Container Terminal Hamburg and held discussions with Tom Eckelmann, President, EUROGATE, exchanging perspectives on terminal productivity, digitalisation and the evolution of modern maritime logistics infrastructure. Further discussions with senior representatives of the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) and Hamburg’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Innovation covered port modernisation, green-port initiatives, environmental sustainability, logistics management and future-ready maritime infrastructure. India's participation at SMM 2026 comes amid an expanded national presence at the world's leading maritime trade fair. For the first time, MoPSW and the Indian Ports Association are organising two official Indian joint pavilions, while around 35 Indian exhibitors are expected to showcase capabilities spanning shipbuilding, maritime technology and sustainable solutions. The Hamburg engagements assume added significance as India-Germany strategic relations enter a new phase, with both countries marking 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. The two governments have also reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, technology, innovation and sustainable development. For India's maritime sector, the discussions provide an avenue to learn from Hamburg's port ecosystem while exploring partnerships in smart ports, green shipping, automation, logistics integration and maritime infrastructure. The engagements are expected to contribute to stronger institutional and industry-level cooperation between India and Germany and support India's ambition to build a globally competitive, technology-enabled and sustainable maritime ecosystem. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Susanta Kumar Purohit, IRSEE (1996 batch) and Chairperson of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, has assumed the additional charge of Chairperson of Paradip Port Authority (PPA), effective September 1, 2026. The additional responsibility has been entrusted to him by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India. Purohit brings extensive experience across port administration, infrastructure development, engineering, public policy and public-sector management. Before taking charge at Paradip, he served as Joint Secretary in the Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, where he was involved in policy development and sectoral initiatives. His career has also included important assignments with Indian Railways, the Ministry of Power and the Government of Odisha. His appointment comes at an important stage in Paradip Port’s development as the port continues to expand capacity, strengthen connectivity and modernise its operations. According to PPA, the immediate focus under his additional charge will include infrastructure and connectivity enhancement, improved operational efficiency, modernisation of cargo-handling systems and greater emphasis on green and sustainable port development. In his Chairperson’s message, Purohit highlighted Paradip Port’s evolution as a major gateway for international and coastal trade serving the hinterland of Odisha and the eastern and central regions of India. He pointed to projects such as the Western Dock Expansion, berth mechanisation, deep-draft facilities and integrated traffic and cargo management systems as key elements of the port’s modernisation programme. He also underlined the importance of digital transformation, automation and technology-led solutions in improving cargo movement and transparency. “These advancements strengthen Paradip Port’s competitiveness and position it as a future-ready logistics hub,” Purohit said. Purohit will continue to serve as Chairperson of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority alongside his additional responsibility at Paradip. His leadership is expected to support PPA’s efforts to strengthen its role in India’s maritime and logistics ecosystem while advancing the broader objectives of Maritime Vision 2030 and a globally competitive maritime sector. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

AHMEDABAD - Decisive policy updates are approaching for India's maritime sector as the initial 30-year concession periods for Gujarat’s premier private ports near completion without a formal state extension policy in place. The Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) agreements for Gujarat's first generation of private ports which helped turn the state into India's largest maritime portalare entering their final years: APM Terminals Pipavav: Concession signed in 1998 ends on September 29, 2028. Mundra Port (APSEZ): Concession ends on February 16, 2031. Policy Uncertainty Hits Investment Commitments Despite repeated extension requests submitted by APM Terminals Pipavav (in 2011 and 2021) and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) (in 2015 and 2021), the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has yet to announce a formal policy framework. GMB officials noted that discussions are ongoing and Union government approval has been sought, but no final decisions have been published. This lack of visibility creates hesitation around committing long-term capital. For example, APM Terminals Pipavav signed a non-binding ₹17,000-crore investment memorandum with the state government in late 2025, but explicitly indicated that major outlays depend on securing concession extension clarity. Evolving Concession Landscape While Gujarat’s original 1997 framework set a 30-year limit, neighboring maritime states have increasingly adopted longer operational horizons: Andhra Pradesh (Gangavaram & Krishnapatnam): 30-year initial period with potential 20-year extensions (50 years total). Kerala (Vizhinjam): 40-year initial period with 20-year extension provisions (60 years total). Odisha (Dhamra): 34-year initial concession period including construction. Recent decisions by Gujarat signal a shift toward alignment with these longer tenures. The state's updated shipbuilding policy extended waterfront concessions to up to 50 years. Additionally, GMB announced that six upcoming greenfield ports along the coastline will offer flexible BOOT concession terms ranging between 30 and 50 years. How the state resolves the extension of its flagship ports will serve as a crucial benchmark for private infrastructure partnerships nationwide. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates  

Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla has crossed the 50 million metric tonnes (MMT) cargo handling milestone significantly ahead of last year's schedule, reinforcing its position as one of India's fastest-growing and most efficient major ports. The port achieved the landmark on 15 July 2026, reaching the 50 MMT mark 19 days earlier than it did in the previous financial year. The achievement places Kandla at the forefront among India's major ports in terms of cargo growth and operational efficiency during the current fiscal year. The accelerated cargo handling reflects the port's sustained focus on infrastructure expansion, process optimisation and improved logistics connectivity. According to DPA, the milestone is the outcome of coordinated efforts by port officials, terminal operators, shipping lines, trade partners and other stakeholders who have collectively contributed to maintaining high cargo volumes despite evolving global trade dynamics. The port has consistently strengthened its operational capabilities by enhancing berth productivity, streamlining vessel turnaround times and leveraging digital technologies to improve cargo movement. Continued investments in mechanisation, multimodal connectivity and customer-centric services have also played a key role in supporting higher throughput. Officials noted that the early achievement underscores growing confidence among exporters, importers and logistics service providers in Kandla's ability to offer efficient, reliable and cost-effective port operations. The steady increase in cargo volumes also reflects robust demand across key commodities handled at the port, including petroleum products, fertilizers, coal, containers, edible oils and other bulk cargo. As one of India's largest cargo-handling ports, Deendayal Port has been pursuing capacity augmentation projects and infrastructure upgrades to accommodate rising trade volumes. Improved rail and road connectivity, coupled with operational reforms, have further strengthened the port's position as a vital gateway for the country's western hinterland. The latest milestone aligns with the Government of India's broader vision of enhancing port-led development under the Maritime India agenda and improving the efficiency of the national logistics ecosystem. Industry observers believe Kandla's sustained performance will further boost trade competitiveness and strengthen India's maritime infrastructure. With the 50 MMT benchmark achieved well ahead of last year's timeline, Deendayal Port Authority is expected to maintain its growth momentum through the remainder of FY 2026-27, supported by expanding cargo volumes, strategic infrastructure investments and continued collaboration with the maritime and logistics community. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has introduced remote customs clearance for sea cargo operations, eliminating the longstanding requirement for customs officers to physically board vessels for routine clearances. The reform is expected to reduce vessel turnaround time, streamline cargo movement, and improve operational efficiency at Indian ports. The initiative, implemented through Circular No. 26/2026-Customs, standardises procedures for “Entry Inward” and “Vessel Sail-out Clearance” processes across ports. Under the revised framework, customs approvals will now be granted based on electronic filings and digital verification systems rather than mandatory physical inspections. The move aligns with the government’s broader push for faceless and paperless trade facilitation. Shipping lines and vessel operators will now be able to submit mandatory declarations digitally under the Sea Cargo Manifest and Transshipment Regulations (SCMTR). These include cargo manifests, crew declarations, and ship store details through online platforms such as e-Sanchit. Industry stakeholders believe the reform could significantly ease congestion at major ports by reducing procedural delays linked to vessel boarding schedules. Traditionally, customs officials physically boarded ships to verify documents before granting entry or departure clearance, a process that often resulted in operational bottlenecks, especially during high traffic periods. Under the new risk-based approach, physical boarding will be limited to vessels flagged through risk profiling and intelligence assessments. This selective inspection mechanism is expected to help customs authorities maintain regulatory oversight while enabling faster cargo processing for compliant operators. The reform is also expected to strengthen India’s ease-of-doing-business credentials and improve the competitiveness of its ports in global trade networks. Faster clearances can lower logistics costs, improve shipping schedules, and support exporters and importers dealing with time-sensitive cargo. The policy complements other digital customs initiatives introduced in recent years, including automated export clearances and electronic documentation systems. Experts note that digitisation of customs processes has become increasingly critical as cargo volumes rise and supply chains demand greater speed and predictability. By integrating remote clearances with SCMTR-based electronic filings, the CBIC aims to create a more transparent and technology-driven cargo management ecosystem. The latest reform underscores India’s intent to align its maritime trade procedures with international best practices while supporting port-led economic growth. For the logistics and shipping sector, the shift towards remote customs operations could mark a crucial step in reducing inefficiencies and enhancing end-to-end supply chain performance. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Government of India has appointed Jasmeet Singh Bindra as the new Chairperson of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA), marking a significant leadership transition at one of the country’s busiest and strategically important ports. Bindra, a 1997-batch Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) officer, will serve in the post for a five-year term under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The appointment comes at a crucial time for India’s maritime and logistics sector, as ports are being increasingly integrated with multimodal transport corridors and national infrastructure initiatives such as PM Gati Shakti and Sagarmala. Industry observers expect Bindra’s experience in rail logistics and freight operations to strengthen port-rail connectivity and cargo movement efficiency at Visakhapatnam Port. Before assuming the new role, Bindra served as Principal Chief Operations Manager (Coordination) at South East Central Railway, Bilaspur. During his railway career, he also held senior positions including Executive Director (Traffic) in the Gati Shakti wing of the Railway Board and Divisional Railway Manager in Ranchi. His operational expertise in freight mobility, network optimisation and logistics planning is expected to support the port’s future expansion plans. Visakhapatnam Port Authority plays a critical role in handling bulk cargo, containers, coal, crude oil and fertilisers on India’s eastern coast. The port has been focusing on infrastructure modernisation, mechanisation and digital transformation to improve turnaround time and operational efficiency. The leadership transition is expected to further accelerate these initiatives, especially as India aims to enhance its maritime competitiveness and reduce logistics costs. Bindra succeeds M. Angamuthu, who had been holding additional charge of the Visakhapatnam Port Authority while serving as Chairperson of Mumbai Port Authority. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved Bindra’s appointment as part of a broader reshuffle in leadership positions across key Indian ports. India is targeting a larger share in global trade and aiming to position its ports as integrated logistics hubs, reflecting the government’s continued emphasis on aligning rail, road and maritime infrastructure to create a more seamless national supply chain network. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!