IMU hosted a thematic dialogue titled “Transforming Indian Ports: Capacity Building, Sustainability, and Digital Innovation” at its Chennai campus. Organised as a prelude to India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025 by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), the event also laid the foundation for the upcoming National Conference on Port-led Regional Development in November 2025. The discussions aligned with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, focusing on: Capacity Building to expand port capacity beyond 3,300 MMTPA, Digital Innovation using IoT, AI, and blockchain, Sustainability through green technologies aligned with the Harit Sagar Guidelines. Key Outcomes: MoU with Swan Defence & Heavy Industries (SDHI): For maritime skilling in shipbuilding and heavy fabrication. MoU with Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC): Under the “Naan Mudhalvan Finishing School” initiative for youth skill development. Upcoming MoU with Guidance Tamil Nadu: For workforce training in support of new Mega Shipbuilding Clusters at Cuddalore and Thoothukudi. Distinguished Speakers Included: Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha, IAS, Special Secretary, MoPSW (Chief Guest), Dr. Malini V Shankar, Vice Chancellor, IMU, Prof. Manoj Choudhary, VC, GSV, Prof. G. Raghuram, VC, IMU, Experts from JSW Infrastructure, CEPT University, GMU, TERI, IIT Guwahati, CEMS, and others. Sessions covered Port-led Regional Development, Sustainability, and Digital Innovation, concluding with a panel discussion and vote of thanks.