Pratik Bijlani –
India’s maritime sector reached a historic milestone on October 17th as the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), in collaboration with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, celebrated its 75th anniversary with an international conference themed “Samudra Śuddhiḥ, Rāṣṭrasya Vṛiddhih – Powering India’s Green Maritime Renaissance.” The event, held at the Bharat Ratnam Mega Common Facilitation Centre, Mumbai, brought together maritime leaders, policymakers, and innovators from around the world to deliberate on India’s transition towards sustainable and resilient shipping practices.
In his welcome address, Mr Sushil Mansingh Khopde, Additional Director General of Shipping, emphasized the DGS’s enduring mission to ensure “Safe, Secure, and Sustainable Shipping,” outlining three key priorities—green shipbuilding, eco-friendly recycling, and capacity building for seafarers in a decarbonizing world. Highlighting upcoming initiatives such as the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme (SDFA II) scheduled for 2026, he underscored the country’s vision to lead the global shift toward sustainable maritime operations. “Our maritime legacy has always been rooted in resilience and innovation. As we step into the next era, the focus will be on fostering global partnerships and technology-driven solutions to achieve a cleaner, safer, and more efficient maritime sector,” he said.
Chief Guest Mr Rajiv Jalota, Former Chairman, Mumbai Port Authority and Former Director General of Shipping, called for a unified approach to maritime decarbonization based on governance, finance, and implementation. He proposed a national steering committee, green port standards, and transparent monitoring mechanisms, stressing that collaboration between ports, regulators, financiers, and startups will be crucial for India’s green transformation.
Guest of Honor Ms. Josefine Pallesen, Maritime Counsellor, Embassy of Denmark, commended the Indo-Danish Centre of Excellence in Green Shipping for its focus on developing green fuels, enhancing safety in fuel transitions, and promoting seafarer upskilling. “India’s vision for green maritime growth aligns closely with Denmark’s global sustainability goals. Strengthening cooperation between our countries will be key to advancing innovation and achieving cleaner oceans,” she remarked, highlighting the success of bilateral workshops and policy exchange under the partnership.
In his keynote address, Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, reflected on India’s journey as the DGS transitions into the Directorate General of Maritime Administration under the Merchant Shipping Act 2025. He stressed that India’s maritime future will be defined by innovation, safety, and environmental stewardship. “As we mark 75 years of maritime excellence, this conference underlines our commitment to building a sustainable and globally competitive shipping ecosystem. Green shipping is not merely a goal; it is a national priority aligned with India’s climate ambitions,” he stated.
The event featured four thought-provoking sessions addressing green shipbuilding, sustainable recycling, workforce development, and emission-free shipping. Experts from leading organizations such as the Indian Register of Shipping, Anglo-Eastern Ship Management, TERI, Maersk, KPIT Technologies, GMS and Navalt Solar & Electric Boats shared insights on achieving carbon neutrality and promoting circular economy principles.
Concluding the day’s proceedings, Capt. Anish Joseph extended heartfelt thanks to the dignitaries, participants, and organizing team, emphasizing that as the DGS enters its next phase, it carries forward a renewed vision for sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration. The event not only celebrated India’s maritime legacy but also set a strong course toward its green maritime renaissance.
Marex Media