IEMA Partners with India Boat & Marine Show to Advance Electric and Sustainable Boating in India

Barcelona, Spain – November 25, 2025 — The International Electric Maritime Association (IEMA) has announced a new partnership with the India Boat & Marine Show (IBMS) as the expo’s official Industry Association Partner for its 8th edition, to be held from January 29–31, 2026 at the Bolgatty Palace Event Centre in Cochin, India. 

India is rapidly emerging as a hub for maritime electrification, with pioneering projects in inland passenger ferries, water taxis, and hybrid workboats already demonstrating the country’s commitment to sustainable mobility. States such as Kerala, Goa, and Assam are investing in electric fleets for public transport and tourism, supported by national initiatives to modernize inland waterway infrastructure. As these projects expand, India is poised to become one of the most dynamic growth markets for next-generation maritime technologies in Asia. 

IEMA member Navalt delivered India’s first solar-electric ferry, the award-winning Aditya, nine years ago, and has recently launched the first ocean-going solar ferry exported from India, bound for service in the Maldives.  

“India is proving that large-scale electric vessels can operate reliably, safely, and economically,” said Sandith Thandasherry, CEO of Navalt Solar & Electric Boats. “The collaboration between Indian innovation and global expertise is accelerating what’s possible on the water.” 

“We’re hugely proud to have entered this partnership with IEMA, because being selected by them is not something that every show organizer can achieve,” said Joseph Kuriacose, CEO of Cruz Expos, organizer of the India Boat & Marine Show. “It shows that the IBMS can be a platform for promoting sustainable maritime solutions in this sector.” 

"India is a growing and important part of the global maritime landscape,” said Adria Jover, President of IEMA. “Our presence at IBMS reflects IEMA’s ongoing effort to build stronger connections across regions and to include emerging markets in our shared conversations. Being here allows us to link our members with new opportunities, deepen our understanding of port development and regulatory policies, and strengthen our collective view of the maritime industry worldwide." 

The India Boat & Marine Show is the country’s only trade event dedicated to the inland waterway transportation, leisure and rescue boating, and water sports tourism sectors. Now entering its 8th edition, the event is recognized as India’s premier marine industry platform, bringing together leading manufacturers, innovators, and policymakers to discuss new technologies and showcase next-generation vessels. 

This collaboration underscores IEMA’s mission to promote electrification across all maritime segments, from inland ferries to coastal workboats and recreational vessels, while supporting local industry development and knowledge exchange between regions.