On September 13th, a key conference titled “India’s Role in MSC: Ensuring Safer & Sustainable Shipping” took place at the IRS Auditorium in Powai, Mumbai. The event was organised by the Directorate General of Shipping in collaboration with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), the Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI), the Institution of Naval Architects (India) (INA), and the Institute of Marine Engineers (India) (IME(I). Several industry leaders, academics, and stakeholders gathered to commemorate a pivotal moment in maritime safety and sustainability.
The seminar was attended virtually by Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, who served as the Chief Guest. Despite the fact that he joined online, his participation was critical, emphasising the event’s significance in determining India’s maritime destiny. The ceremony also welcomed a distinguished array of dignitaries including Mr Ajithkumar Sukumaran, Chief Surveyor, DG Shipping; Mr Pradeep Sudhakar, Chief Ship Surveyor (I/C), DG Shipping; Mr KM Rao, Principal Officer, MMD, Chennai; Mr PK Mishra, Managing Director of the Indian Register of Shipping; Mr Rajeev Nayyer, President of the Institute of Marine Engineers (India); Capt MP Bhasin, Chairman of The Company of Master Mariners of India; and Shri J Dasgupta, President of the Institution of Naval Architects.
The conference began with an opening address by Mr David Birwadkar, Chairman of the IME(I) Mumbai Branch. His brief introduction set the tone for the occasion, which was followed by the dignitaries lighting the lamp, symbolising the illumination of knowledge and the seminar’s collaborative spirit.
Mr Jagannathan gave the inaugural talk online, providing a brief outline of the seminar’s topic and significance in the context of worldwide marine safety and sustainability programs. This was followed by a keynote lecture from Mr Sukumaran offered a thorough examination of the seminar’s subjects, emphasising their importance to the industry and emphasising the need for ongoing improvement and adaptation in maritime practices.
Mr Mishra then took the stage, making a brief but compelling statement that emphasised the importance of the themes at hand. Mr Rao continued to set the tone for the seminar by expanding on the important topics of discussion, highlighting the significance of incorporating innovative ideas and best practices into marine operations.
The seminar featured a series of insightful presentations:
Cdr. Sandeep Kumar (IRS), Mr. Jatesh Chandra and Mr. Anish S (CSL), and Capt. S. Kishore (CMMI) addressed the topic of “Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) – Present & Future.” Their presentation explored the current advancements in autonomous shipping technologies and their potential future impact on the maritime industry.
Capt. Anish Joseph, Deputy Nautical Advisor, DG Shipping, presented on “Role of MSC in Maritime Security and Anti-Piracy/Armed Robbery.” This session provided valuable insights into how the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) is pivotal in addressing maritime security challenges, including piracy and armed robbery.
Mr Sunil Kumar, Honorary General Secretary, and Mr Rajeev Nayyer, (IME(I)) discussed “Alternate Fuels and Operational Safety.” Their presentation highlighted the growing importance of alternative fuels in reducing maritime emissions and enhancing operational safety.
Mr Srinivas R (IRS) and Capt. Viraf Chichgar, (CMMI) tackled the topic of “Cybersecurity Regulations and Practical Solutions.” They offered a detailed examination of the regulatory landscape for cybersecurity in the maritime sector and practical measures for safeguarding digital infrastructure.
The seminar concluded with a summary and closing remark by Mr Nebu Oommen, Ship Surveyor-cum-DDG(Tech), DG Shipping, who encapsulated the key takeaways from the sessions and emphasised the path forward for enhancing maritime safety and sustainability. Capt. Vivek Bhandarkar, Secretary General of CMMI, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all speakers, participants, and attendees for their contributions and engagement.
This seminar was a testament to India’s ongoing commitment to advancing maritime safety and sustainability. By bringing together key stakeholders and facilitating robust discussions, the event reinforced the collective effort required to address the evolving challenges of the maritime industry and to ensure a safer and more sustainable future for shipping.
Marex Media