At the 10th convocation of the Indian Maritime University in Chennai, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal congratulated 2,196 graduates and highlighted a decade of major maritime reforms. He noted port modernization that cut turnaround time to 0.9 days, nine Indian ports ranking globally, and major projects like the ₹76,000-crore Vadhavan port. Cargo movement through waterways and coastal shipping has surged, supported by the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. Sonowal emphasized rising shipbuilding investment, a doubling of India’s seafarer pool, and expanding job opportunities in a rapidly growing maritime sector.

Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has become the fastest major port in India to handle 100 million tons of cargo in FY 2025-26, surpassing the milestone ahead of schedule. The achievement reflects strong performance across liquid, dry bulk, break-bulk, and container segments, supported by efficient operations, better evacuation systems, and enhanced connectivity. Minister Sarbananda Sonowal hailed the accomplishment as a sign of India’s rapidly modernizing port sector. DPA credits coordinated, round-the-clock efforts and continuous infrastructure upgrades for the record-breaking performance.

Carriers increased capacity for a second consecutive week across major haul trades, with the largest rise—11.4%—from the Far East to the US East Coast, driven by Ocean Alliance’s dual departures of Ever Focus and Texas Triumph. North Europe–US East Coast capacity hit a 28-month high, up 55.5% from last month. Rising supply pushed spot rates down into the US coasts, while rates into North Europe and the Mediterranean rose amid healthy demand. Xeneta’s Peter Sand says these divergent trends are likely to shape market conditions into 2026.

The Inland Waterways Authority of India has partnered with key Delhi agencies to develop the Yamuna Boat Tourism and Ferry Infrastructure Project. Covering a 6–7 km stretch of National Waterway 110 near Wazirabad Barrage, the ₹20-crore initiative will introduce leisure cruises and ferry services. Two floating jetties at Sonia Vihar are ready, and electric–solar hybrid boats will operate along the route. Reviewed by senior leaders, the project aims to boost mobility, tourism, and eco-friendly recreation in the national capital.

Secretary of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Vijay Kumar reviewed key operational, marine and cargo-handling systems during his visit to Paradip Port Authority. He inspected the command control centre, marine safety systems, digital access controls and berth readiness at the Wet Basin, while PPA Chairman P. L. Haranadh briefed him on efficiency and capacity initiatives. Kumar examined iron ore loading operations, inaugurated a dust suppression system, the Integrated Gate No. 1 Complex and a new SCADA system. He also reviewed the Paradip Golf Course and led a tree plantation drive.