Pratik Bijlani –
On 26th December, the Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy (AEMA) in Karjat hosted a grand Passing-Out Parade (POP) for its DNS 31, GME 45, and ETO 18 batches, marking the culmination of their rigorous maritime training. The ceremony celebrated the achievements of cadets completing core pre-sea courses, including Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), Graduate Marine Engineering (GME), and Electro-Technical Officer (ETO), all conducted under stringent academic standards and affiliated with the Directorate General of Shipping. The event was graced by Chief Guest Mr Sushil Mansing Khopde, IPS, Additional Director General of Shipping, and Guest of Honour Mr Javed Akhtar, Padma Bhushan awardee and celebrated Indian screenwriter and poet, lending an extraordinary presence to the occasion.
The ceremony commenced with a welcome address by Mr Tejinder Pal Singh Bhamra, Principal of AEMA, who said, “This passing-out ceremony signifies the transition from training to service, where technical competence is strengthened by values, discipline, and the responsibility of representing the nation across the seas.” He highlighted key initiatives by DG Shipping, including the Merchant Shipping Act 2025, enhanced seafarer welfare, and action against fraudulent certifications, while acknowledging AEMA’s reputation as a top-performing IMU institute committed to producing skilled, responsible global seafarers.
Cadets showcased cultural performances including traditional and Bollywood dances, poetry readings, and other acts under the guidance of Cadet Matthew Joseph, the Cultural Host. Course reports were presented by Capt. Santosh Pandey (DNS Batch 31), Mr. Anil Sharma (ETO Batch 18), and Mr. Yogesh Amar Chonkar (GME Batch 45), highlighting intensive training, simulator exposure, ship visits, industry interactions, and participation in national and international competitions. Capt. Nazareth, an AEMA alumnus, inspired cadets by sharing his journey from cadet to captain and emphasizing friendship, mentorship, ethics, and professional excellence as hallmarks of a proud maritime career.
Mr Khopde, during his address, stated, “In shipping, it is not the ship or the machinery that defines excellence, but the people who man it. Every Indian seafarer represents the nation at sea, and excellence in skill, conduct, mental well-being and values is the true measure of our patriotism.” He elaborated on the government’s vision under Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, focusing on increasing India’s share of global seafarers, women’s participation, welfare measures, soft skills, and mental well-being initiatives like Sagar Mein Yog.
A highlight of the event was the AEMA Conclave, an interactive session hosted by MC Sweta Singh with Mr Akhtar, who shared thought-provoking insights on life, creativity, and the maritime world. Mr Akhtar compared life to navigating an ever-changing ocean, emphasized the importance of holistic education beyond mere specialization, reflected on love and human irrationality, and underscored the Merchant Navy’s historical role in spreading cultures, languages, and values across the world. He said, “The true legacy of the Merchant Navy is not just the goods it transported, but the cultures, languages, and values it carried across oceans, quietly shaping the world.” He concluded with his poem “Waqt,” a meditative reflection on time and human experience, leaving cadets inspired to navigate life with resilience and introspection.
The ceremony concluded with a prize distribution, honouring top-performing cadets, including Sameer Parkash (DNS 31), Mustak Masuk Shaikh (GME 45), and Pawan Ghimirey (ETO 18), followed by a vote of thanks from representatives of each passing-out batch. The POP not only marked a significant milestone for the cadets but reinforced AEMA’s commitment to producing competent, well-rounded, and globally responsible merchant navy officers.
Marex Media