Jagdamba Prasad Pandey –
On August 1, ClassNK, a leading classification society, hosted its highly anticipated Technical Seminar at Hotel Holiday Inn in Chennai. The event was a resounding success, attracting a sizable and engaged audience of over 100 maritime professionals. The attendees, representing prominent ship management companies and other key industry stakeholders, gathered to discuss the latest developments and future trends shaping the maritime sector.
The seminar’s collaborative tone was set from the beginning by Mr Yochi Iga, Regional Manager, and Mr Sumithran Sampath, General Manager, who delivered a warm welcome. Their opening remarks emphasized the importance of continuous dialogue and forward-thinking collaboration to navigate the industry’s evolving landscape.
A series of insightful presentations by ClassNK experts formed the core of the seminar. Mr Siva Sandrani, a ClassNK Surveyor, began by providing a comprehensive update on the latest discussions and regulatory changes at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). His talk covered crucial topics like maritime safety, environmental protection, and the ongoing digital transformation of the industry, giving attendees a clear picture of the global regulatory environment.
Following this, Mr Sekhar Padala, Manager, took the stage to discuss the increasing adoption of energy-saving technologies on vessels. He highlighted how these sustainable practices are not only crucial for reducing carbon emissions but also for cutting operational costs, a key concern for shipping companies today. His presentation underscored the industry’s shift towards more environmentally responsible and economically viable solutions.
The presentations concluded with Mr Divyal Komarpant, Surveyor, who shared valuable statistics and insights related to Port State Control (PSC) inspections. He identified common deficiencies and offered practical best practices to help companies enhance compliance and minimize the risk of vessel detentions. This information was particularly well-received, as it provided actionable advice that attendees could immediately apply to their operations.
The seminar was met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from the participants. Many praised the relevance and depth of the topics, highlighting how the presentations addressed their most pressing concerns. The interactive Q&A sessions further enriched the experience, fostering a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange and professional networking among peers.
As the event concluded, attendees expressed a strong interest in future seminars, affirming ClassNK’s role as a vital resource for industry professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve. The society looks forward to building on this success and welcoming even more participants at its next annual seminar in 2026, continuing its commitment to industry engagement and knowledge sharing.
Marex Media