The Indian Maritime University (IMU) Kolkata Campus has taken a significant step towards promoting innovation, research, and excellence in maritime education and seafaring with the inauguration of the Dr. Ravi K Mehrotra Centre of Excellence in Maritime (RKMCoEM) on July 18, 2025. This landmark event marks a major milestone in the university’s mission to shape the future of the Indian maritime sector.
The Centre is the result of a generous endowment by Dr. Ravi K Mehrotra, an illustrious alumnus of IMU Kolkata Campus and Founder of the M/s Foresight Group, United Kingdom. A formal MoU was signed between IMU and M/s RK Mehrotra Holdings Limited (RKMHL) on August 5, 2024, under which RKMHL has endowed USD 20 million over five years towards advancing the objectives of the Centre.
The Centre has already initiated work in niche research areas such as improving the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) through biofuels and developing a comprehensive toolkit for fuel optimisation in merchant shipping. Future research plans include exploring alternate fuels and integrating Artificial Intelligence into maritime operations.
The Dr. Ravi K Mehrotra Centre of Excellence in Maritime aims to promote research and development initiatives in maritime technology and practices, conduct advanced training and academic programs, and foster partnerships with shipping companies, ports, and allied maritime stakeholders. With its cutting-edge research and forward-thinking solutions, the Centre is poised to empower young seafarers and shape the future of the Indian maritime sector.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Dr. Malini V. Shankar, IAS, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of IMU, along with dignitaries from the maritime sector, IMU alumni, industry stakeholders, and key university officials. Dr. Ravi K Mehrotra himself presided over the grand inauguration, highlighting the Centre’s potential to drive innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry.
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A Visionary’s Commitment: Shaping the Future of Maritime Education – take RK Mehotra’s photo here
I’m overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude as I stand here today. I envisioned an institute that could rise to the occasion and become equivalent to MIT in maritime history. I’m thrilled to see that vision taking shape. I thank the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Malini Shankar, for taking personal interest and pride in making this happen.
My journey began with DMET, where I was trained as a marine engineer. Despite facing difficulties, I overcame them and went on to become a shipping advisor to Ayatollah Khomeini in Iran. That experience taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of this institute.
I’ve made a promise to myself to give back to this institute, and I’m grateful to have found like-minded individuals who share my vision. I believe this institute has the potential to become a world-class institution, and I’m committed to supporting it.
I want to emphasize the importance of preserving the institute’s legacy and improving it to make it a hub for maritime excellence. I’m confident that with the right leadership and support, it can become a beacon for maritime education and research.
Thank you to everyone involved, and I look forward to seeing the institute’s continued growth and success.