The Cochin branch of the Institute of Marine Engineers (India) is set to host Comarsem, the Cochin Marine Seminar, on January 29 and 30, in partnership with the Directorate General of Shipping. This two-day event will gather policymakers, industry leaders, technologists, academicians, and maritime professionals from around the world, creating a high-impact platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.

Theme and Vision
Under the banner “Maritime India — Innovations and Collaborations,” Comarsem 2026 will focus on India’s maritime transformation and explore strategic pathways to achieve the nation’s ambition of becoming a global maritime superpower. S. Krishnankutty, Chairman, described the seminar as a global forum uniting policy, technology, and industry to collaboratively shape India’s maritime growth story in line with both national and international aspirations.
Policy and Regulation in Focus
Ajith Sukumaran, Chief Surveyor at the Directorate General of Shipping, highlighted the seminar’s role in regulatory and policy alignment. He noted that India’s maritime sector is undergoing a significant transformation fueled by policy reforms, sustainability objectives, and technological advancements. Comarsem 2026 aims to facilitate meaningful engagement between regulators, industry stakeholders, and global partners to accelerate innovation and collaboration throughout the maritime ecosystem.
Panels and Technical Discussions
The seminar will include focused panel discussions and technical paper presentations covering: policy frameworks and new legislation to accelerate shipping and inland waterways; infrastructure development for shipbuilding, repair, and recycling; adoption of greener technologies to meet decarbonization targets; innovative training for skills related to alternative fuels, digitalization, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence; creation of maritime clusters to tackle emerging challenges indigenously; and improvements in logistics and supply chain systems to promote sustainable growth.
Comarsem 2026 promises to be a landmark event, offering insights and collaborative opportunities for the next wave of maritime innovation in India.
