Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan Inaugurates 62nd National Maritime Day and Merchant Navy Week

The 62nd National Maritime Day and Merchant Navy Week were officially inaugurated by Maharashtra Governor C P Radhakrishnan at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai. The event, held on April 5, 2024, aimed to highlight the significance of India’s maritime sector in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

The Governor emphasized the need for modernization of ports and better coordination among maritime and transport authorities to enhance India’s global trade capabilities. The event witnessed the participation of key stakeholders from the shipping industry, railways, and trade sector, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening India’s maritime infrastructure.

Governor’s Address: Emphasizing Maritime Growth

While addressing the dignitaries and officers present at the event, Governor C P Radhakrishnan underscored the critical role of the maritime sector in propelling India towards economic growth. He stressed the need for integrated coordination between key organizations, including:

• Directorate General of Shipping
• Shipping Corporation of India (SCI)
• Container Corporation of India
• Indian Railways
• Traders and Exporters

According to the Governor, a well-coordinated approach among these entities will significantly contribute to India’s goal of becoming a maritime powerhouse. He also called for rapid modernization of Indian ports, stating that advanced infrastructure and technology will ensure smoother operations, increased efficiency, and global competitiveness.

National Maritime Day Symbolism and Traditions

As part of the National Maritime Day celebrations, Director General of Shipping, Shyam Jagannathan, pinned a miniature National Maritime Day flag onto the Governor’s jacket as a symbol of the maritime industry’s contributions to the nation. He also presented the Governor with a memento and a Coffee Table Book highlighting the achievements and progress of India’s maritime sector.

Dignitaries and Officials Present at the Event

Several esteemed officials from the shipping and maritime sectors attended the event, reflecting the industry’s dedication towards national progress. The key dignitaries included:

• Shyam Jagannathan – Director General of Shipping
• Ajit Sukumaran – Chief Surveyor and Additional Director General of Shipping
• Pandurang Raut – Deputy Director General
• Captain B. K. Tyagi – Chairman of the Shipping Corporation of India
• Pradeep Sudhakar – Chief Ship Surveyor
• Dr. Sudhir Kohakade – Deputy Director General
• Captain Nitin Mukesh – Deputy Nautical Advisor
• Mukul Dutta – Shipping Master
• Captain Sankalp Shukla – Maritime Expert
• Milind Kandalgavkar – General Secretary of the National Union of Seafarers

Significance of National Maritime Day and Merchant Navy Week

The National Maritime Day is observed annually to commemorate the first voyage of SS Loyalty, the first Indian-owned ship, which set sail from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919. The event serves as a reminder of India’s rich maritime history and its growing importance in global shipping and trade.

Merchant Navy Week, celebrated alongside National Maritime Day, honors the contributions of Indian seafarers and their role in enhancing international trade and economic development.

Future Prospects: Modernization and Expansion of the Maritime Sector

India is rapidly moving towards modernizing its maritime sector to meet the increasing demands of global trade. The government’s initiatives include:

• Development of world-class ports with smart technology and automation.
• Strengthening maritime security and environmental sustainability.
• Encouraging private investment in shipping and logistics.
• Boosting employment opportunities in the maritime industry.

The Governor’s call for enhanced coordination between various maritime agencies and organizations aligns with India’s broader goal of becoming a global leader in maritime trade.

Summary of the Event