Pratik Bijlani –
On March 23, the Indian Maritime University (IMU) Navi Mumbai Campus witnessed the grand opening of the inaugural Maritime Games 2025, an event that promises to be a historic milestone for the maritime community. Olympian and Indian Olympic Association President, Padma Shri Dr PT Usha (MP), inaugurated the ceremony, setting the tone for a spirited celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Organized under the visionary leadership of Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping (DGS), the Maritime Games 2025 is a first-of-its-kind initiative uniting India’s maritime industry through sports. Highlighting the pivotal role of the maritime sector in the nation’s economy, the event underscores the importance of fostering teamwork, collaboration, and innovation within the industry. Scheduled from March 24 to April 4, the games will culminate in a grand finale on April 5, National Maritime Day, at premier venues across Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.
The ceremony began with a flag-hoisting and lighting the torch ritual led by Mr Jagannathan and the chief guest, followed by an oath-taking ceremony by an IMU cadet. In his opening address, Mr Jagannathan set the stage for the games, describing them as more than a competition. “The National Games for the maritime sector is not just a competition; it is a festival – a festival of sports, a festival of joy, a festival of spirit and of commitment,” he said, emphasizing the role of sports in strengthening bonds within the maritime fraternity. He also highlighted the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Fit India Movement, aligning the initiative with India’s broader goals of maritime excellence and national growth.
Dr Usha, in her keynote address, captured the essence of the games and their significance. “Maritime sports demand a rare combination of physical strength, mental resilience, and unyielding determination—qualities that define not just great athletes but also the brave seafarers who dedicate their lives to India’s economic and strategic strength,” she stated.
She commended the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways for their innovative approach in promoting athleticism and teamwork within the maritime sector. “India’s maritime heritage is rich and vast, and these games serve as a platform to merge tradition with modern sports,” she added, underscoring the event’s role in uniting India’s maritime legacy with contemporary aspirations.
The opening ceremony also included a Ganesh Vandana cultural performance by IMU cadets, followed by speeches from dignitaries including Capt BK Tyagi, CMD of SCI, and Mr. Namdev Shirgaonkar, Secretary General of the Maharashtra Olympic Association. Their support reinforced the importance of nurturing athletic talent and fostering a spirit of resilience within the maritime community.
With over 2,000 participants from 81 maritime organizations competing in 14 sports across four venues, the games mark the beginning of a vibrant sporting tradition. Notable moments included a motivational showcase by endurance athlete Sukant Singh Sukhi and a heartfelt vote of thanks by Competition Director Capt. Girish Phadnis.
The Maritime Games 2025 are a testament to the unity and strength of the maritime community, celebrating its heritage and paving the way for future collaborations through the universal language of sports.
Marex Media