IPA Signs MoU with C3iHub-IIT Kanpur Under Digital Centre of Excellence to Drive Smart Port Transformation

Bengaluru, February 24, 2025: The Indian Ports Association (IPA) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with C3iHub, IIT Kanpur, under the Digital Centre of Excellence (DCoE) initiative. This strategic partnership is aimed at advancing India’s vision of transitioning from digitized ports to fully automated smart ports through a phased approach.

The collaboration will focus on implementing robust cybersecurity controls and cybersecurity management systems, developing specialized cybersecurity-related skill sets for port authorities and operational teams, and designing comprehensive cybersecurity policies tailored for the maritime sector. As Indian ports embrace automation and advanced digital technologies, ensuring resilience against evolving cyber threats is essential. This initiative will foster a secure, efficient, and future-ready maritime ecosystem, setting a global benchmark for smart port development.

Sunil Paliwal, Chairman, IPA, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating, “This MoU under the Digital Centre of Excellence reflects our commitment to transforming Indian ports into world-class smart ports. By collaborating with C3iHub-IIT Kanpur, we aim to not only advance automation but also ensure robust cybersecurity frameworks that safeguard our digital assets. The whole world is looking at us—it’s the need of the hour, and we must set an example.”

Vikas Narwal, Managing Director, IPA, added, “The future of port operations lies in smart automation, driven by secure digital ecosystems. Our collaboration with C3iHub will accelerate this transformation while ensuring that cybersecurity remains a core pillar of our digital journey. This partnership will inspire confidence globally in India’s capability to lead in maritime security and innovation.”

As a leading institution in cybersecurity research and technological innovation, IIT Kanpur brings a wealth of expertise to the partnership. Through C3iHub, the institute will provide research-driven insights, cutting-edge technological solutions, and skill development programs to strengthen cybersecurity measures in India’s maritime sector.

Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director, IIT Kanpur, stated, “IIT Kanpur is proud to be part of this transformative initiative. Through C3iHub, we will bring cutting-edge research and technological expertise to support IPA’s vision of secure, smart port operations. This collaboration is an opportunity to showcase India’s technological leadership to the world.”

Prof. Sandeep K. Shukla, Project Director, C3iHub, added, “As ports become more digitized and automated, cybersecurity must evolve in parallel. Our collaboration with IPA will focus on securing these digital infrastructures while fostering innovation and skill development to support India’s smart port vision. We aim to set global standards for cybersecurity in maritime operations.”

Dr. Tanima Hajra, CEO, C3iHub, highlighted, “This MoU signifies a crucial step toward enhancing India’s maritime cybersecurity landscape. Our focus will be on developing resilient cybersecurity frameworks, empowering the workforce with advanced skills, and supporting the digital evolution of ports to become secure, smart, and future-ready. The world is watching, and together, we will set an example of how technology and security can drive progress.”

The MoU was formalized in the presence of key dignitaries, including Dr. Arvind Bhisikar (Executive Director-IT, IPA), A. Sivalingam (Assistant Director-IT, IPA), Rohit Negi (Chief Strategy Officer, C3iHub), and Mridul Chamoli (Officer on Special Duty, C3iHub).

This collaboration between IPA and C3iHub-IIT Kanpur is a testament to India’s commitment to pioneering cybersecurity excellence in the maritime sector. By leveraging research-driven innovations and state-of-the-art technological solutions, IIT Kanpur reinforces its role as a leader in safeguarding critical digital infrastructures. This partnership will not only fortify India’s port security but also serve as a model for global best practices in secure smart port transformation, ensuring a resilient and technologically advanced maritime future.