The Indian Maritime University (IMU), a central university under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, hosted AZIMUTH 2026 – Academic Zeal for Innovation in Maritime: Understanding Transformation and Horizons, an international conference dedicated to Digital Transformation and Innovation in Maritime Management, held at the IMU Chennai Campus on 12–13 February 2026.
AZIMUTH 2026 brought together a diverse and influential gathering of global maritime leaders, policymakers, academicians, researchers, technologists, and industry professionals to examine how emerging technologies are reshaping the future of maritime operations, logistics, sustainability, safety, and governance.
The conference served as a strategic platform to accelerate dialogue on the regulatory frameworks, global standards, and governance systems required to support maritime digital transition while ensuring long-term resilience, security, and efficiency across maritime ecosystems.
Key Focus Areas and Thematic Tracks
Aligned with India’s maritime vision and the evolving needs of global shipping and port ecosystems, AZIMUTH 2026 featured discussions, research presentations, and expert sessions across six major thematic tracks:
- Smart Ports, Logistics & Supply Chain Technologies
- Maritime Data Science, AI & Predictive Analytics
- Cybersecurity, Digital Governance & Regulatory Innovation
- Autonomous Shipping, Smart Navigation & Fleet Operations
- Sustainability, Circular Economy & Green Maritime Solutions
- Integrated Transport Ecosystems
Speaking during the conference, Prof. Malini V. Shankar, Vice Chancellor, Indian Maritime University, emphasized the importance of aligning innovation with execution and national priorities and said “All the initiatives that have been taken are in alignment with what was planned and documented. So, it’s a commitment of India to not just put it on paper but actually to implement it,” she stated.
AZIMUTH 2026 concluded with a strong consensus on the need for collaborative action between academia, industry, and government to ensure that maritime innovation remains both scalable and secure. Selected research papers presented during the conference will be considered for publication through official conference channels, strengthening knowledge exchange and global academic contribution.
