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Vizhinjam International Seaport, developed by Adani Ports in collaboration with the Kerala government, has quickly established itself as a key deep-water transshipment hub, handling a remarkable one million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) in just ten months. Strategically located near major east-west shipping lanes, the port is capable of accommodating the world's largest vessels, enhancing India's role in global logistics and maritime trade. Kerala Ports Minister VN Vasavan announced plans for a second phase of development, set to begin in mid-January, which will see an investment of ₹9,700 crore to expand the port's infrastructure. In its inaugural year, Vizhinjam handled 1.4 million TEU and 650 vessels, including 43 ultra-large container ships, significantly boosting Indian exim trade and reducing reliance on foreign ports. The port is also notable for its semi-automated operations and pioneering gender inclusion by employing women as crane operators. 
Published: Dec 29 2025, 6 ameznews.inIndia's logistics sector is poised for transformation with the rollout of GST 2.0, aimed at reducing costs and enhancing efficiency amid rising logistics expenses and complex supply chains. Building on the foundation laid by GST 1.0 in 2017, which unified the tax landscape and eliminated inter-state checkpoints, the new framework emphasizes simplification, integration, and compliance. This is expected to lower hidden costs, optimize network planning, and bolster global competitiveness. Key benefits include reduced logistics costs for sectors like FMCG and automobiles, which in turn supports household demand and increases shipment volumes. Lower GST rates on commercial vehicles facilitate fleet expansion, while streamlined compliance aids micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in scaling operations. By 2026, the sector anticipates lower service costs and enhanced digital capabilities, aligning with India's ambition to become a $5 trillion economy and fostering a more reliable supply chain network.
Published: Dec 29 2025, 6 ameznews.inBoeing's historic Red Barn, purchased in 1910, served as the company's first official headquarters and was pivotal in the design and manufacturing of airplanes from 1916 until the mid-1960s. This iconic structure, recognized as the oldest airplane manufacturing facility in the United States, was saved from demolition in the 1970s and is now displayed at The Museum of Flight. In other aviation news, Philippine Airlines has welcomed its first A350-1000, becoming the tenth airline globally to operate this advanced long-range aircraft. The A350-1000 will enhance the airline's transpacific network, complementing its existing A350-900 fleet. Featuring cutting-edge aerodynamics and new-generation engines, the aircraft is designed with 70% lighter materials, promising improved range, efficiency, and a significant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
Published: Dec 29 2025, 6 ameznews.inIn 2025, India's shipping sector saw significant advancements, particularly in shipbuilding, following the Union Cabinet's approval of a ₹69,725 crore package aimed at revitalising the industry. This initiative is expected to enhance India's maritime ecosystem and increase the domestic fleet, which currently comprises about 1,600 vessels, representing only 2% of global tonnage. A notable development occurred in December when South Korea's HD Hyundai announced plans for a $2 billion shipyard in Tamil Nadu. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways also introduced operational guidelines for two major shipbuilding initiatives, with an outlay of ₹44,700 crore. Experts highlight the sector's potential for job creation and technological innovation, while also noting challenges such as the need for skilled workers and technological collaboration. With rising global interest and government support, India aims to position itself as a key player in the global shipping market, fostering growth and investment in the coming years.
Published: Dec 29 2025, 6 ameznews.inThe Indian government has unveiled new guidelines for two significant shipbuilding initiatives, the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme (SBFAS) and the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS), with a combined budget of ₹44,700 crore. These initiatives aim to enhance India's shipbuilding capacity and global competitiveness, following a ₹69,725 crore package approved by the Union Cabinet. SBFAS will provide financial assistance of 15% to 25% per vessel, supporting projects worth approximately ₹96,000 crore over the next decade, while SbDS focuses on long-term capacity building, including the establishment of greenfield shipbuilding clusters and modernization of existing shipyards. Both schemes will incorporate a Credit Risk Coverage Framework, offering government-backed insurance to mitigate financial risks. With these measures, India aims to boost domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and position itself as a major maritime nation by 2047, contributing to the broader 'Make in India' initiative.
Published: Dec 28 2025, 6 pmeznews.inIn a significant development for India's aviation sector, AISATS, a joint venture between Air India and Singapore's SATS Limited, is set to introduce simulators for ground handling training, marking a first for the country. The initiative aims to enhance staff training in critical operations such as check-in, cargo handling, and aircraft cleaning, with a focus on safety and digital learning. CEO Ramanathan Rajamani highlighted that these simulators will allow employees to practice aircraft turnaround and safety scenarios in a controlled environment, improving operational readiness. Currently operating at eight airports, including its latest addition in Kochi, AISATS is also developing a multi-modal cargo hub at Noida airport. The company, which employs around 16,000 staff, recently became the first ground handling firm in India to receive safety certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, underscoring its commitment to a tech-enabled and safety-focused operational framework.
Published: Dec 28 2025, 6 pmeznews.inIn response to recent flight disruptions, the Indian government is implementing measures to enhance passenger protection, according to Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is establishing new systems and bolstering institutional capacity to address large-scale operational failures. A key initiative is the launch of a 24x7 passenger complaints redressal centre, which utilizes advanced technology to capture feedback and grievances, including those from social media. The centre aims to systematically address common complaints, potentially incorporating artificial intelligence for analysis. Additionally, the Ministry is equipping its various arms to handle unexpected events, such as the recent disruptions experienced by IndiGo. The newly operational Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) facilitates coordinated grievance redressal, allowing real-time interaction between passengers and airline representatives, thereby ensuring timely resolution of issues related to cancellations and delays.
Published: Dec 28 2025, 6 pmeznews.inIn a significant move for India's agricultural sector, the Bureau of Indian Standards has unveiled the country's first national test standard for electric agricultural tractors, known as IS 19262: 2025. Released by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, this voluntary standard aims to enhance the safety, reliability, and performance of electric tractors through standardized testing protocols. The Consumer Affairs Ministry highlighted that the implementation of these guidelines will promote the adoption of electric tractors, fostering innovation in clean agricultural technologies and contributing to reduced emissions. As electric tractors emerge as a sustainable alternative to diesel-powered models, they promise lower operating costs and a healthier working environment for farmers. The development of this standard involved collaboration among various stakeholders, including government ministries, research institutions, and industry representatives, marking a crucial step towards aligning India's agricultural practices with global trends in electric mobility and mechanization. Additionally, the National Test House has signed an MoU with DRDO to enhance research and testing capabilities.
Published: Dec 28 2025, 5 pmeznews.inIndia's appliances and consumer electronics sector is poised to become the fourth-largest market globally by FY27, with revenues expected to reach ₹3 lakh crore by FY29, driven by rising household incomes and increased access to consumer finance. The industry is adapting to new Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) norms set to take effect in January 2026, prompting companies to invest in local manufacturing and AI innovations. Tier II and III markets are emerging as key demand drivers, with consumers increasingly seeking premium products. Notable developments in 2025 included LG Electronics India's record IPO, Haier's strategic divestment, and Samsung achieving ₹1 lakh crore in sales. Despite challenges such as weather volatility affecting cooling product sales, the festive season saw a significant rebound, aided by GST reforms. As companies gear up for future demand, the sector is expected to thrive on the back of smarter, energy-efficient appliances and evolving consumer aspirations.
Published: Dec 28 2025, 4 pmeznews.inIndia's shipping sector has experienced a significant increase in bank credit, with outstanding loans reaching ₹9,959 crore in October 2025, marking a 28% rise from ₹7,782 crore the previous year and nearly double the ₹5,364 crore recorded in October 2020. Analysts attribute this growth to rising cargo volumes at major ports and enhanced domestic shipbuilding capabilities. Bhavik Vora from Grant Thornton Bharat noted that sustained capital expenditure at ports has bolstered the operational environment, with major ports seeing a 7-8% year-on-year increase in cargo handled. The ports industry alone saw a 30% year-on-year rise in loans to ₹7,588 crore. Prashant Vashisht of ICRA Ltd highlighted the urgency for India to enhance its shipbuilding capacity due to international supply constraints. The Indian government has introduced a ₹44,700 crore financial assistance package to support domestic shipbuilding, further facilitating access to affordable financing for large vessels.
Published: Dec 28 2025, 4 pm
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