Pratik Bijlani –
On 19th September, the Foreign Owners Representatives and Ship Managers Association (FOSMA) hosted its Annual Dinner at Hotel Aurika in Mumbai, bringing together an illustrious gathering of ship managers, industry leaders, stakeholders, and dignitaries from across the maritime spectrum. Widely regarded as one of the most significant occasions in the shipping calendar, the annual dinner once again served as a platform to celebrate achievements, reflect on progress, and reinforce FOSMA’s role in advancing the Indian maritime industry.
The event was graced by the presence of leading figures from FOSMA itself, including Capt Sankalp Shukla, Chairman; Capt Rajesh Tandon, CEO; Capt Mahesh Yadav, Director (Marine Education & Training); and Capt. Kisan Karnad, General Manager (Operations and Administration). Officers from the Directorate General of Shipping added further stature to the evening, with the attendance of Capt. Harinder Singh, Nautical Advisor and DDG (Tech.); Capt. Nitin Mukesh, Dy. NA-cum-Senior DDG (Tech.); and Capt. Anish Joseph, Dy. NA-cum-Senior DDG (Tech.). The gathering was also enriched by the presence of distinguished industry leaders such as Mr Ajay Reshamwala, MD of Reshamwala Brokers; Capt MP Bhasin, Master Chairman of CMMI; Capt SM Halbe, CEO of MASSA; Capt Philip Matthews, Director of SIMTF; Mr Deepak Shetty, Former Director General of Shipping along with other eminent maritime personalities.
The evening was marked by an atmosphere of camaraderie and constructive dialogue, with insightful conversations focusing on the evolving role of ship management in today’s challenging global environment. Issues of safety, compliance, and sustainability featured prominently, reflecting the industry’s collective recognition of the need for continuous adaptation in the face of emerging challenges. Guests also took the opportunity to commend FOSMA for its longstanding dedication to training, welfare, and advocacy for seafarers, as well as its unwavering commitment to representing the interests of foreign shipowners in India.
Capt Tandon ably served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, welcoming the distinguished gathering and setting the tone for what was both a celebratory and reflective event. A highlight of the evening was the address by Capt Shukla, who extended his heartfelt thanks to all attendees for their presence and support. In his speech, Capt. Shukla emphasized the growth and rising stature of FOSMA and paid special tribute to the former Directors of the association. Mementos were presented in their honour, acknowledging their invaluable contributions and the role they played in shaping the foundation upon which FOSMA continues to thrive today.
Beyond the formalities, the dinner also served as an occasion to celebrate the resilience of the maritime sector and its ability to navigate complex challenges through collaboration and shared purpose. Guests raised a collective toast to the future, echoing a spirit of unity and optimism for the years ahead.
As the evening drew to a close, the FOSMA Annual Dinner 2025 once again reaffirmed its reputation as more than just a social gathering. It stood as a testament to the association’s pivotal position in the Indian maritime industry, fostering not only fellowship among its members and partners but also a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and progress. With this successful celebration, FOSMA continues to chart a steady course, steering the industry towards a stronger and more sustainable future.
Marex Media