Maritime India Foundation signs MoUs with IIT Madras, IIT Bombay and IMU Chennai for innovation hubs

Direct fact

In May 2026, the Maritime India Foundation signed MoUs at Chennai Port Authority to establish Maritime Innovation Hubs with IIT Madras, IIT Bombay and the Indian Maritime University, Chennai, under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Key specifics

• The signing ceremony was held at Chennai Port Authority premises.
• Maritime India Foundation is the implementing agency for the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative.
• Three hubs were signed with IIT Madras, IIT Bombay and IMU Chennai.
• IIT Kharagpur was scheduled as the fourth hub.
• The initiative aims to onboard 36 startups and execute 40 innovation projects.

Exam lens

Question type: science and technology plus maritime economy; remember Chennai Port Authority, 36 startups, 40 projects, and the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative. TNPSC may ask which institutes are partnering for maritime innovation hubs.