Dredging Corporation of India has been honoured with the "Dredging Company of the Year" Award 2026 at The Economic Times Global Ports & Shipping Awards. The recognition underscores the firm’s role in developing India’s port and maritime infrastructure over five decades.

Capt. S. Divakar, MD & CEO, received the award on behalf of the organisation. He described the honour as encouragement for the company’s continued focus on excellence, innovation, and nation-building.

Fleet Expansion and History

Established in 1976, Dredging Corporation of India began operations with a fleet of four dredgers. The company has since expanded to operate more than ten dredgers. This growth reflects its evolving capability in supporting national maritime development projects.

Stakeholder Acknowledgement

As part of its Golden Jubilee celebrations, the company acknowledged support from its four promoter ports: Visakhapatnam Port Authority, Paradip Port Authority, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, and Deendayal Port Authority. Management also credited the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways for its guidance.

What the Numbers Show

The expansion from four to more than ten dredgers represents a significant increase in operational capacity. This fleet growth aligns with the company’s long-term tenure in the sector, suggesting sustained demand for its dredging services across major Indian ports.

Dredging Corporation of India appointed Susanta Kumar Purohit as an additional director. The board also noted the cessation of P. L. Haranadh effective September 1, 2026.

The appointment follows a recommendation by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee. It was approved through resolution by circulation under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015.

Board Approval Details

Purohit holds the additional charge of Chairman at Paradip Port Authority. His appointment as an additional director is subject to obtaining a Director Identification Number or submitting consent in Form DIR-2.

The role is classified as Promoter – Non-Executive & Non-Independent. The appointment continues until the next Annual General Meeting or via postal ballot within three months.

Director Profile

Purohit brings extensive experience in infrastructure development and public-sector management. He previously served as Joint Secretary in the Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals.