Pratik Bijlani –
On April 4, the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) commemorated a landmark moment in its journey with the celebration of its “Foundation Day 2025” at their premises in Mumbai. This event also marked the beginning of a year-long Golden Jubilee celebration, honouring 50 years of IRS’s unwavering commitment to maritime safety, innovation, and service. The special occasion was graced by Chief Guest Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping; Guest of Honour Mr Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General – Maharashtra Circle, India Post; and Capt BK Tyagi, CMD of the Shipping Corporation of India Limited, along with several industry leaders including Mr Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman of IRS; Mr. P.K. Mishra, MD of IRS; and Mr. T.K. Sahu, Joint MD of IRS.
The ceremony began on a traditional note with a lamp lighting ritual accompanied by Ganesh Vandana, followed by a welcome address by Mr Sahu. He acknowledged the dedication of IRS employees, the trust of industry partners, and the support from regulatory bodies and the armed forces, declaring that the 50-year milestone would serve as “a launchpad for the future.” Mr Mishra further highlighted the year’s key celebratory events, including stakeholder engagements and green initiatives, while reaffirming IRS’s pledge to sustainability and excellence.
The event saw the release of a commemorative postal cover, collaboratively designed by the IRS team and India Post. Unveiled by the chief guest and guest of honour, the cover bore a special cancellation seal dated April 4, celebrating IRS’s 50 years of maritime contributions. “We wish the next 50 years also to be filled with success for your great organisation,” said Mr. Singh, underscoring the symbolic and collector’s value of this philatelic tribute.
A highlight of the day was the unveiling of Touch of Class – Golden Jubilee Edition Vol. 3, a publication that elegantly encapsulates IRS’s legacy through curated articles, historic photos, and testimonials. The launch of IRS’s new website, www.irclass.org, marked another major stride in its digital transformation journey, offering stakeholders a streamlined interface and quicker access to vital services.
In a heartfelt address, Mr Sharma traced IRS’s roots, saying, “It all began much before 1975 when Sir Ramaswamy Mudaliar conceived the idea of an Indian Classification Society.” He paid tribute to the visionary founders and celebrated the organization’s rise to prominence, noting, “To have today, gross tonnage of 24 million tons under your belt, the recognition of 53 flags—I think that is a commendable feat.” He also highlighted future initiatives in decarbonization, nuclear propulsion, and advanced digitalization.
Guest of Honour Capt Tyagi reflected on his journey with the maritime sector and IRS’s rise from its modest beginnings to becoming a globally respected classification society. He emphasized the growing momentum in domestic shipbuilding and encouraged IRS to take a central role in this transformation, including a possible presence in Delhi to support national initiatives.
Chief Guest Mr Jagannathan praised IRS’s values and international standing, saying, “From the Directorate General of Shipping, we warmly congratulate each one of you and look forward to you leading from the front as a classification society.” He also lauded the commemorative stamp release as a testament to IRS’s national recognition.
The ceremony concluded with the felicitation of dignitaries and a vote of thanks by Mr. Santosh Patil. Adding to the grandeur, IRS attempted a record for the “Largest Corporate Flag Made on a Cloth” for the India Book of Records. Adjudicator Mr. Narvijay Yadav presented a provisional certificate after the flag hoisting, wrapping up a day that honoured the past and looked boldly to the future of IRS.
Marex Media