Pratik Bijlani –
ABS Marine Services hosted a special ceremony on July 26 to commemorate Mr Vijay Arora’s retirement as Managing Director of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass). The event, held at Mumbai’s Garware Club, brought together industry leaders, colleagues, and friends to recognise Mr Arora’s outstanding contributions and accomplishments throughout his career.
Mr Arora, who took over as Managing Director on July 1, 2021, contributed significantly to improving marine safety and boosting fleet growth. His work at IRClass was distinguished by his extraordinary vision and relentless dedication to excellence. ABS Marine Services organised this event to honour his devotion and service, allowing his peers and well-wishers to celebrate his great career and give their best wishes for his future endeavours.
The event was attended by notable players in the maritime industry, including Capt Philip Matthew, Director, SIMTF; Ms Sanjam Gupta, Director, Sitara Shipping; Mr Deepak Shetty, Ex-DG of Shipping; Capt Vivek Bhandarkar, Secretary General, CMMI; and Mr PK Mishra, MD, IRS, among others. The participation of these industry heavyweights emphasised the significance of the occasion and Mr Arora’s high standing.
The occasion began with a welcome message by Capt Oniel Dhir, CEO, ABS Marine Services. Capt Dhir welcomed the attendees and expressed gratitude for their presence despite the adverse weather. He reminisced about his first meeting with Mr Arora and the strong friendship they developed over the last 20 years. Capt Dhir praised Mr Arora’s competence, knowledge, and direction, which have substantially aided ABS Marine Services’ growth and success. “His skills, knowledge, and guidance have had a wide-ranging impact on our team and company. The words will fail to justify it, but he has helped us tremendously, and I am confident his legacy will continue to inspire us in the days ahead,” Capt Dhir said.
Capt PB Narayanan, MD, ABS Marine Services expressed his deepest appreciation for Mr Arora’s contributions. Reflecting on their 27-year cooperation at IRClass, Capt Narayanan complimented Mr Arora’s perfectionist tendencies, devotion, and discipline, which have served as sources of inspiration and learning for him.
Mr Deepak Shetty, Ex-DG of Shipping, expressed gratitude for attending the occasion and praised Mr Arora’s major effect on the industry. He emphasised Mr Arora’s technical prowess and management ability, which were critical in his ascension to the top of the IRS. “The fact that he eventually rose to the pinnacle of the position of Managing Director during his 34-year tenure with the IRS is an eloquent testimony to the qualities that he brings to bear,” Mr Shetty noted, wishing Mr Arora well in his future endeavours.
Finally, Mr Arora addressed the audience, expressing his deepest gratitude to the people who had travelled from far and wide to honour him. He reflected on his time at IRClass, the challenges he experienced, and the lessons he learnt. Despite retiring from the IRS, Mr Arora stated that he is not ready to retire from contributing to the sector. “I’m very happy today, content to a large extent, and with the industry’s support, I’ll be able to do something for the industry,” he said, indicating his desire to continue bringing value to the maritime sector.
The ceremony was a fitting homage to Mr Arora’s outstanding career, honouring his legacy and reinforcing his long-term impact on the marine industry.
Marex Media