In a landmark achievement for maritime innovation, Docker Vision, a pioneering AI and Computer Vision startup, has been awarded a prestigious ₹1 Crore grant by USHUS, a maritime startup engagement program of Cochin Shipyard Ltd in association with IIT Madras, recognizing its innovative contributions towards maritime digital transformation. The award was formally presented during the Dedication Ceremony of Terra Maris, held on 7th April 2025 at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) as part of the Green Tug Transition Program.

The grand event was graced by Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, who led the felicitation of forward-looking technologies driving sustainability and efficiency in the Indian maritime sector. The welcome address was delivered by Madhu S Nair, Chairman and Director of Cochin Shipyard Limited, who emphasized the importance of nurturing innovation and skill-building among India’s youth.

“The entire maritime sector—ports, inland waterways, and shipping—is undergoing rapid transformation driven by two major national programs: the Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

We need our young generation to go across the high seas bringing global laurels to India. Training has become extremely important, especially when the maritime industry is going through a technology transformation” he remarked.

The ₹1 Crore grant awarded to Docker Vision underscores its role in transforming port and shipping operations through advanced AI-powered OCR (Optical Character Recognition) solutions. Docker Vision’s flagship OCR technology is designed to bring automation to ports through AI-driven identification of containers, vehicles, and shipping documents—reducing manual operations, improving traceability, and accelerating logistics across terminals.

Prajith Nair, CEO of Docker Vision, shared: “Receiving this grant under the CSL USHUS Program is a defining moment for Docker Vision. It’s not just a recognition of our technology, but a powerful validation of our mission to transform the maritime and logistics sectors through deep tech innovation. We are excited to work closely with IIT Madras and Cochin Shipyard in building AI-powered infrastructure that supports India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. This will fast-track our product development, accelerate realworld deployment, and put Indian innovation on the global maritime map.”

Athira M, CTO of Docker Vision, added: “This grant opens up incredible opportunities for us to deepen our R&D and push the boundaries of AI-powered OCR in complex maritime environments. From developing edge-capable OCR systems to real-time document automation for ports and terminals, we now have the resources to scale faster and build robust, domain-specific solutions. We are committed to building technology that not only meets global standards but also sets them – empowering ports, customs, and logistics stakeholders with intelligent, efficient tools.”

This recognition strengthens Docker Vision’s commitment to driving India’s maritime digital transformation, in alignment with the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. We are dedicated to building indigenous AI technologies that will position India as a global leader in smart, secure, and sustainable port infrastructure.