India's maritime workforce must embrace AI and automation to become global hub, says IMU

As India aims to strengthen its position in the global maritime industry, the country faces a critical challenge: preparing a new workforce that blends traditional seafaring skills with advanced technology. Officials at the Indian Maritime University (IMU) have emphasised that artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven technologies must be integrated into maritime programmes to meet the demands of the evolving sector.

Conventional roles in ship operations, such as maintenance and repair, continue to be in demand internationally. However, there is a growing need for experts who can work with automation, alternative fuels, sustainability, and digital technologies. Maritime experts and professors are training students to adapt to these new requirements, aiming to improve their interest in the field and increase employability.

“India’s biggest skills gap lies in advanced shipbuilding and digital technologies. Industry needs expertise in automation, robotics, alternative fuels, data analytics and digitally enabled manufacturing, alongside traditional maritime engineering skills,” said Rajoo Balaji, Pro Vice-Chancellor of IMU, in an interview with The Hindu.

Marine engineering has evolved significantly over the past decade. Engineers are now expected to understand AI-driven condition-based maintenance, digital twins, and emerging autonomous vessel technologies, in addition to conventional operational skills.

As green shipping gains momentum worldwide, education modules are being redesigned to train youth on alternative fuels, energy efficiency, and environmental compliance, aligning with global environmental concerns.

Despite rapid technological changes, demand for conventional seafaring roles remains strong globally. Opportunities also exist in shipyards, ship repair, marine surveying, and shore-based plant management. However, experts predict that future roles will expand to include data analysts, automation specialists, and sustainability professionals.

The sector is witnessing a gradual rise in women’s participation. Women account for only about 2% of the global seafaring workforce, but IMU admission data show that the number of female students in India has increased 18-fold over the past decade.

Sukanya Rajalakshmi, senior research fellow at the Centre for Policy Research in Maritime Studies at IMU, said this increase reflects changing perceptions of the profession among women. “Greater visibility of maritime careers, changing societal attitudes, and targeted initiatives such as scholarships and fee concessions have encouraged more women to join the sector,” she said.

Despite progress, misconceptions persist. Many students still believe seafaring is a male-only profession. Another challenge is the fear that automation and new technology will drastically reduce jobs at sea. Prof. Balaji countered this, stating that with innovation and integrated programmes, work will not cease to exist if the industry adapts to changing times.