India Targets 12% Coastal and Inland Waterway Freight Share by 2047, Says Sonowal

PURI: India is working to increase the share of coastal and inland waterway transport in the country's freight movement from 6% to 12% by 2047, while targeting one million sea cruise passengers by 2029. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal outlined these goals at a Consultative Committee meeting in Puri, Odisha. The targets are expected to be supported by two proposed initiatives: the Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme and the Cruise Bharat Mission. During the meeting, Sonowal also announced plans to develop the Puri International Cruise Terminal through a partnership between Paradip Port Authority (PPA) and the Government of Odisha. The project is expected to involve an investment of around ₹1,500 crore. Sonowal chaired the ministry's Consultative Committee meeting, which focused on strengthening coastal and cruise shipping in India. Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Shantanu Thakur and eight Members of Parliament attended the meeting. The ministry's Secretary opened the discussion by presenting the measures being taken to promote coastal cargo movement and cruise tourism. "In the last 12 years under PM Narendra Modi, India's maritime sector has undergone massive transformations," Sonowal said. India's coastline stretches for more than 11,000 kilometres, offering considerable potential for transporting goods over long distances through a relatively cleaner mode. According to Sonowal, coastal cargo handled at Indian ports has increased from 74 million metric tonnes to 177 million metric tonnes over the past 12 years, registering growth of around 140%.

November 04, 2026 | Logistics

India and Denmark Strengthen Maritime Cooperation with Focus on Green Shipping and Decarbonisation

MUMBAI: India and Denmark are looking to deepen their maritime partnership, with green shipping, decarbonisation and sustainable development emerging as key areas of cooperation. Both countries have reiterated their commitment to working together to support a cleaner and more sustainable global shipping industry. Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), met H.E. Martin Lidegaard, Denmark's Minister for Business and Competitiveness, for a bilateral discussion at APM Terminals, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Mumbai. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss areas of mutual interest and identify possibilities for expanding cooperation in the maritime sector. The Danish delegation included H.E. Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensen, Ambassador of Denmark to India; Ms. Tine Nielsen Hertz, Deputy Permanent Secretary; senior Danish officials; and representatives from APM Terminals and Mærsk. The Indian delegation comprised Shri K. M. Rao, Chief Surveyor; Capt. S. Darokar, Principal Officer, Mercantile Marine Department (MMD), Mumbai; Shri Pradeep Sudhakar, Chief Ship Surveyor; Shri Deependra Singh Bisen, Deputy Director General (International Cooperation); and Shri Pravin Kumar Roy, E&SS. The discussions covered several important areas, including green shipping, maritime decarbonisation, alternative marine fuels, seafarer training, skill development, shipbuilding, maritime technologies, sustainable ship recycling and regulatory cooperation. Both sides discussed how their respective technical capabilities and industry experience could help accelerate the shift towards a cleaner, more efficient and resilient maritime sector.

November 03, 2026 | Global Trade

FICCI-Kearney Report Urges India to Strengthen Port Connectivity and Logistics by 2030

MUMBAI: India's ports have recorded steady growth in cargo handling and operational efficiency over the past decade. However, weaknesses in inland connectivity, logistics coordination and shipping services could prevent the country from fully benefiting from this progress, according to a report released by FICCI and Kearney in Mumbai. Titled India's Maritime Agenda for 2030: From Efficient Ports to Globally Connected Trade Gateways, the report highlights that the next stage of maritime development will depend on more than expanding port infrastructure. Shipping services, inland transport links, logistics networks and industrial connections will play an equally important role in linking ports with domestic and international markets. The report recommends that the government and industry adopt separate development strategies for four types of maritime gateways by 2030: container gateways, transshipment hubs, industrial and energy gateways, and specialised export corridors. The recommendations build on the progress made by India's port sector over the past decade. Cargo handled at major and non-major ports increased by 38 per cent between FY2017-18 and FY2025-26, rising from 1,209 million tonnes to 1,668 million tonnes. During the same period, total handling capacity grew by 22 per cent to 2.8 billion tonnes annually. Capacity utilisation also improved from 52 per cent to 59 per cent, indicating that the system still has room for further growth. Operational performance has improved as well. Average vessel turnaround time at major ports declined by 18 per cent to around 49 hours. Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Pipavav and Mundra also feature among the world's top 30 ports in the World Bank's Container Port Performance Index 2025. However, the report points out that some of the biggest bottlenecks now occur beyond the port's immediate operations. Data from the 2025 National Time Release Study covering four major seaports shows that export approval took an average of around 30 hours. The period between approval and vessel departure, however, extended to approximately 158 hours, accounting for 84 per cent of the total measured time. At Jawaharlal Nehru Custom House, export customs clearance averaged 2 hours and 12 minutes in 2026, while the complete export cycle took more than eight days. The report clarifies that this period includes logistics activity and scheduled waiting, not just unnecessary delays. Nevertheless, the findings underline the importance of better coordination across the export process.

New Mangalore Port Authority Celebrates Karnataka Rajyotsava with Patriotic Spirit

MANGALURU: New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) celebrated Karnataka Rajyotsava at the port with patriotic spirit and enthusiasm. The event was presided over by Smt. S. Shanthi, Deputy Chairperson of NMPA, while noted writer and television anchor Shri Prakash Hosabettu attended as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Shri Yallappa Vaddar, President of NMPA Kannada Sangha, and Dr. Surekha Hoskeri, member of the Karnataka Rajyotsava Celebration Committee and Chief Medical Officer, NMPA. The celebrations began with Smt. S. Shanthi hoisting the State Flag in the presence of dignitaries, Board Members, NMPA Kannada Sangha members, officers, employees, staff and school students. The formal inauguration followed with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Deputy Chairperson and floral tributes to Mother Bhuvaneshwari. Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Shri Prakash Hosabettu spoke about the importance of the Kannada language, the significance of Karnataka Rajyotsava and the history behind the celebration. He appreciated NMPA for bringing together members of the entire port community and marking the occasion in an inclusive manner.

November 03, 2026 | Logistics

DP World Strengthens China-Africa Trade Links with New Weekly Shipping Service

DUBAI: DP World's Shipping Solutions AMEA business (Shipping Solutions) is expanding its China-Africa shipping network with the introduction of the China Africa Link, a new weekly service aimed at improving trade connectivity between the Far East and Africa. The service will offer customers more shipping options, wider market access and stronger supply chain resilience. Operated by Shipping Solutions, the China Africa Link is scheduled to begin operations in late November 2026. It will strengthen maritime links between China and the growing markets of East and Southern Africa. The service will follow a port rotation covering Shanghai, Ningbo and Nansha in China, Port Klang Westport in Malaysia, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, Maputo in Mozambique and Singapore, before returning to Shanghai. The route will create additional connections between major Chinese export centres and important African markets, supporting cargo movement across established and emerging trade routes. The China Africa Link also reflects DP World Marine Services' Connected Trade Corridors strategy. This approach combines maritime services, port infrastructure and inland transport to build more integrated and flexible trade networks. By adding connections to key African gateways, the service will give customers more routing choices, accommodate growing cargo volumes and strengthen links between regional and international markets. Ganesh Raj, Global COO, Marine Services, DP World, said: "Global trade is changing, and our customers need more than shipping capacity. They need reliable connections, greater choice and the flexibility to adapt as trade patterns evolve. The new China Africa Link demonstrates how we are bringing our Connected Trade Corridors approach to life. By strengthening maritime connectivity between China and Africa, we are opening up more opportunities for businesses and creating smarter, more flexible shipping networks that help keep cargo moving."

November 03, 2026 | Global Trade

Cyclone Murasu Disrupts Andhra Pradesh Coastline, Triggers Port Warning and Mass Evacuations

VISAKHAPATNAM: Cyclone Murasu has moved into the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. The storm began affecting the coastline around 1 AM on Monday, disrupting normal activities across several coastal areas. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone made landfall between Nellore and Narsapur in Andhra Pradesh. Coastal areas have experienced wind speeds of 100 to 110 kilometres per hour, while the system is expected to move across the state’s coastline over the next few hours. As the storm intensified, Visakhapatnam Port was placed under a high-level Signal 9 storm warning. Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu has affected the Andhra Pradesh coastline, raising concerns over port operations and maritime activity. Although the main landfall occurred further south near Ongole in Prakasam district, the cyclone’s northern peripheral impact has also affected Visakhapatnam Port. The situation has disrupted regional maritime operations and logistics activity. In neighbouring Odisha, the state government has moved more than 160,000 people from Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri districts to safer locations as a precautionary measure. Air travel has also faced disruptions. A total of 19 flights operating from three airports in Andhra Pradesh have been cancelled, while 11 flights from Chennai airport have been postponed due to the cyclone.

November 03, 2026 | Logistics

India and EU Discuss Trade, Supply Chain Resilience and FTA Implementation During Brussels Meetings

Commerce Secretary Shri Rajesh Agrawal held a series of high-level meetings in Brussels with senior European Commission officials to discuss ways to strengthen the economic and strategic partnership between India and the European Union. The discussions included meetings with Ms. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Trade and Economic Security (DG TRADE); Mr. Koen Doens, Director-General of the Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA); and Mr. Gerassimos Thomas, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union (DG TAXUD). During his meeting with Ms. Ditte Juul Jørgensen, both sides explored ways to promote two-way trade, improve market access, build more resilient supply chains and expand business opportunities for companies in India and the EU. They reiterated their commitment to reaching a fair, balanced and mutually beneficial agreement and agreed to continue working closely on pending procedural and implementation-related matters. The discussion with Mr. Koen Doens centred on strengthening development cooperation and strategic ties between India and the EU. Key areas included sustainable development, clean energy, green technologies and other shared priorities. In his meeting with Mr. Gerassimos Thomas, Shri Agrawal discussed customs cooperation, trade facilitation and preparations for implementing the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Both sides underlined the need for transparent, efficient and digitally enabled customs processes to reduce business costs, support trade and ensure the smooth movement of legitimate goods.

November 03, 2026 | Import & Export

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Astro-Economic Global & India Supply Chain Outlook 2025 - 2026

Summary India stands at a rare and consequential inflection point in 2026. Three powerful forces are converging simultaneously: (1) robust domestic economic fundamentals — GDP growth of 6.8-7.1%, manufacturing PMI sustained above 56, and Rs.11.1 trillion in government capital expenditure deployed; (2) a secular structural shift in global trade as corporations accelerate China+1 diversification strategies; and (3) a rare astronomical configuration — Jupiter's 12-year ingress into Cancer in June 2026 — which historically coincides with India's peak periods of foreign trade expansion and capital inflows. The 2025 global supply chain environment was defined by moderate resilience amid ongoing fragmentation. World GDP grew at 3.2% (IMF), trade volume expanded by 2.9%, and container freight rates declined sharply from pandemic-era peaks. India outperformed with 6.8% GDP growth, $795 billion in exports, and significant logistics infrastructure milestones including port throughput reaching 795 million tonnes and Dedicated Freight Corridors progressively commissioned. Looking ahead to 2026, our base case (55% probability) projects global GDP growth of 3.4% and India GDP at 7.1%, with Indian exports reaching $870 billion. The primary risks are external: a US-China decoupling shock, energy price spike, or currency depreciation event. Saturn's continued influence in governance houses demands institutional discipline. The stars, the data, and the strategy all point in the same direction: India's decade of trade leadership begins now. 1: Astro-Economic Foundation 1.1 India Independence Chart (August 15, 1947)Mundane astrology analyses the horoscope of nations, institutions, and macroeconomic cycles using the birth chart of that entity. India's independence chart, cast for August 15, 1947 at midnight IST in New Delhi, forms the bedrock of this astrological analysis. The Ascendant (Lagna) is Taurus — a fixed earth sign ruled by Venus — symbolising stability, agricultural wealth, material prosperity, and trade-centred national identity. Key planetary placements and their economic significance: Taurus Lagna (Ascendant): India's national identity is intrinsically linked with material wealth creation, land-based resources, trade, and tangible exports. Taurus Rising nations excel in agricultural commodities, gems, and precious metals. Moon in Capricorn (10th House): Signifies authority, governance, and global standing. India's governance cycles are deeply influenced by Saturn transits — periods of Saturn influence bring institutional reform, austerity measures, and structural change. Sun in Cancer (3rd House): Communications, neighbouring nation relationships, transportation, and short-distance trade are solar-powered. Policy volatility in regional diplomacy is a recurring theme. Saturn as Karaka: Saturn's placement in Cancer (3rd house) at independence indicates structural challenges in communications infrastructure and border diplomacy — themes that persist into 2025-26. 1.2 Key Planetary Transits: 2025-2026 Planet Position (2025-26) Economic Domain Implication for India Jupiter Taurus to Gemini (Apr 2025) Trade, Expansion Activates 1st and 2nd houses — national wealth expansion; Gemini phase drives tech trade, logistics innovation. Saturn Aquarius (Retrograde Jun-Nov 2025) Governance, Structure 10th house influence for Taurus Lagna — institutional restructuring; government policy reform. Rahu Pisces (11th House India) Foreign Networks Amplifies foreign partnerships, digital trade, pharma exports, and overseas capital inflows. Ketu Virgo (5th House India) Speculation Disrupts speculative investments; volatility in derivative markets. Pluto Aquarius (long-cycle) Structural Transformation Decade-scale reshaping of global manufacturing order. India positioned as primary beneficiary. Uranus Gemini (from 2025) Technology Disruption AI-enabled logistics, automated supply chains, digital trade infrastructure revolution. Mars Multiple signs Geopolitical Tension Mars-Saturn conjunctions Q1 and Q3 2026 signal geopolitical friction and commodity price spikes. The Aries Ingress charts for 2025 and 2026 reinforce these themes. The 2026 Aries Ingress chart places Jupiter in a prominent angular position relative to India's natal chart, amplifying the expansion signals. Eclipse cycles — particularly the Solar Eclipse in Pisces (April 8, 2026) — create short-term volatility windows before a strong recovery phase as Jupiter enters Cancer in June 2026. 2: Global Supply Chain — 2025 Review 2.1 Macroeconomic EnvironmentThe 2025 global economy demonstrated resilience in the face of persistent structural headwinds. According to IMF projections as of October 2025, global GDP growth reached approximately 3.2% — modestly above the 3.1% recorded in 2024 but below the pre-pandemic trend of 3.8%. The developed world continued to decelerate, while emerging and developing economies provided the growth engine Indicator 2024 Actual 2025 Estimate Source Global GDP Growth 3.1% 3.2% IMF World Economic Outlook World Trade Volume Growth 2.6% 2.9% WTO Trade Barometer Global Inflation (CPI) 5.8% 4.3% IMF / World Bank Emerging Market Growth 4.3% 4.8% World Bank GEP Report US Federal Funds Rate 5.25-5.50% 4.75-5.00% US Federal Reserve Brent Crude Oil (Annual Avg) $84/bbl $92/bbl EIA Petroleum Outlook Container Throughput Growth +3.8% +4.1% UNCTAD Review of Maritime Baltic Dry Index (Year Avg) 1,520 1,650 Baltic Exchange 2.2 Logistics & Freight Markets The 2025 freight markets underwent a significant normalisation after pandemic-era distortions. Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) rates declined sharply year-on-year: Transpacific rates fell approximately 18% while Asia-Europe lanes compressed by 32%. Ocean carriers responded by implementing slow steaming and blank sailings to support rate floors. Red Sea Disruption Cost: Rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope added approximately $6-10 billion in annual logistics costs for global trade, extending Asia-Europe voyage times by 10-14 days. AIS shipping data showed 40% of tankers diverted. Near-Shoring Acceleration: Mexico attracted 22% YoY surge in FDI as US corporations diversified manufacturing. Vietnam manufacturing investment grew 18% YoY. Container Throughput: Shanghai posted +4.2% growth; Singapore +3.1%; global utilisation at approximately 81%. Air Cargo Resilience: IATA rates increased 4% YoY as cross-border e-commerce sustained premium logistics demand Astrological Interpretation: Saturn's transit through Aquarius (10th house from India's Taurus Lagna) symbolised the institutional restructuring observed in global supply chains. The WTO's reform agenda stalled as bilateral and regional trade deals proliferated — a Saturn-in-10th archetypal pattern of authority fragmentation and structural reorganisation. 2.3 Supply Chain Pressure Index The Global Supply Chain Pressure Index (GSCPI), published by the New York Federal Reserve, declined from elevated pandemic levels to near-neutral territory in 2025, suggesting that acute disruption pressures had largely normalised. However, structural vulnerabilities in semiconductor supply chains, pharmaceutical API sourcing, and rare earth metal procurement remained elevated. Climate-driven disruptions (drought affecting Panama Canal capacity, flooding in key industrial zones) introduced episodic volatility.

March 02, 2026 | Manufacturing