Dr Radhika Vakharia –
The Institute of Marine Engineers (India) (IME(I)) hosted its much-awaited Annual Dinner on Saturday, January 11, at the picturesque MCA Lawns in Mumbai. The prestigious event brought together over 500 plus guests from the maritime industry for an evening of celebration, networking, and reflection on the growth and future of marine engineering in India.
Mr David Birwadkar, Chairman of the IME(I) Mumbai Branch, welcomed the distinguished guests and attendees. In his opening address, he highlighted the importance of creating more enriching programs for marine engineers to foster continuous professional development. Birwadkar emphasized the Institute’s commitment to supporting its members and the maritime community in achieving greater knowledge and expertise in an ever-evolving industry.
The evening was further graced by the presence of Mr Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, who was the chief guest for the occasion. In a memorable moment, Mr Jagannathan unveiled the new logo of the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), marking its 75 years of service to the maritime sector. The unveiling of the logo symbolized the Directorate’s long-standing legacy and commitment to promoting maritime safety, professionalism, and innovation.
A key highlight of the evening was the raffle draw, where lucky winners walked away with exciting prizes that were met with cheers and applause. This fun-filled activity added a sense of excitement and engagement to the event, leaving attendees with lasting memories.
The celebration was further elevated by a special musical performance by a live band, which captivated the audience and provided the perfect ending to the evening’s festivities.
The Annual Dinner, with its blend of professional discourse, camaraderie, and entertainment, reinforced the sense of community among marine engineering professionals and reaffirmed IME(I)’s dedication to the advancement of the maritime industry in India. It was an evening to remember, marking not just the achievements of the past year but also the promising future that lies ahead for the Institute and its members.
Marex Media