IRS and DPA explore enhanced collaboration for maritime growth

GANDHIDHAM : The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), one of India’s leading ship classification societies and maritime technical service providers, recently held a high-level meeting with Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla, aimed at strengthening collaboration and exploring new opportunities in maritime infrastructure, safety, sustainability and port development.

The IRS delegation, led by Managing Director Shri Praveen Mishra, met Shri Sushil Kumar Singh, IRSME, Chairman of Deendayal Port Authority, along with senior port officials at Kandla. The discussions focused on fostering closer cooperation in areas such as port infrastructure certification, marine asset management, vessel and terminal safety, green port initiatives, and the adoption of emerging technologies in the maritime sector.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on enhancing operational efficiency, promoting sustainable port operations, and supporting India’s vision of becoming a global maritime powerhouse under the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal initiatives. The deliberations also highlighted the importance of robust technical standards, digital transformation, risk management and capacity building to meet the evolving demands of international trade and shipping.

Shri Praveen Mishra emphasized the Indian Register of Shipping’s commitment to supporting Indian ports through world-class classification, certification and technical advisory services. He reiterated IRS’s role in advancing maritime safety, environmental compliance and infrastructure reliability across the country’s rapidly expanding port ecosystem.

Shri Sushil Kumar Singh welcomed the engagement and underscored the strategic importance of collaboration between port authorities and technical institutions in driving innovation, enhancing competitiveness and ensuring sustainable growth. He highlighted Deendayal Port Authority’s ongoing efforts to modernize port infrastructure, improve cargo handling capabilities and strengthen its position as one of India’s leading gateway ports.

The meeting also explored opportunities for knowledge sharing, technical cooperation and future joint initiatives aimed at enhancing operational excellence and supporting the growth of India’s maritime and logistics sectors.

The interaction reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to contribute towards a safer, greener and more efficient maritime industry while supporting the nation’s economic development and trade ambitions. As India continues to invest heavily in port-led development and logistics modernization, such collaborations are expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the country’s maritime infrastructure and global competitiveness.