Pratik Bijlani –
The Maritime Union of India (MUI) Women’s Wing successfully hosted VANGUARD – International Day for Women in Maritime on May 12, at Holiday Inn, Mumbai, bringing together distinguished maritime leaders, policymakers, cadets, seafarers, and professionals from across industries to celebrate the growing contribution of women in maritime and allied sectors. The event emerged as a powerful platform for dialogue, recognition, leadership, and inclusion, reinforcing the importance of women’s participation in shaping the future of global shipping.
The conference commenced with a warm welcome by Dr Deepti Mankad, Head of the MUI Women’s Wing, who described the event as more than a ceremonial gathering. “Today is not just an event, but a celebration of courage, resilience and transformation. Women in maritime are breaking barriers, steering change and redefining possibilities, proving that true progress comes when policies translate into action, opportunities expand, and leadership becomes more inclusive for future generations.” she stated. Her address set the tone for a day dedicated to moving “from policy to practice” and encouraging meaningful transformation within the maritime sector.
The inaugural session featured the traditional lighting of the lamp in the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Mr Deependra Singh Bisen, Deputy Director General of Shipping; Ms Monica Ommundsen Nagelgaard, Hon. Consul General of Norway; Mr Deepak Shetty, IRS, Former Secretary to the Government of India and Director General of Shipping; Capt Savio Ramos, General Secretary, MUI; Mrs HK Joshi, Former CMD, Shipping Corporation of India; and Dr Mankad.
Capt Ramos emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive and welfare-oriented maritime industry while reaffirming MUI’s commitment toward seafarers’ welfare and opportunities for women. Mrs Joshi reflected on her pioneering journey in the maritime sector and encouraged young cadets to pursue excellence with confidence and professionalism.
Mr Shetty delivered a thought-provoking address stressing the need for measurable progress, accountability, governance, emotional resilience, cyber awareness, and future-ready skill development within the maritime industry. Mr Bisen highlighted the Directorate General of Maritime Administration’s “Sagar Mein Samman” initiative aimed at ensuring dignity, safety, and equal opportunities for women at sea.
Delivering the Guest of Honour address, Ms Nagelgaard underscored the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and sustainable growth within maritime. “Women in maritime are not just participants in the industry’s future, they are shaping it through leadership, innovation, and resilience. True progress comes when opportunities, mentorship, and inclusive systems empower women equally, allowing talent to thrive across ships, ports, boardrooms, and the global maritime community.” she remarked.
The event featured a series of insightful panel discussions addressing key issues shaping the future of maritime and women’s leadership. The first panel discussion, “Full Spectrum: Maritime Voices in Times of War,” moderated by Ms Chaitaly Mehta, MD, EFK Global Logistics, examined the realities faced by maritime professionals during geopolitical conflicts, piracy threats, and global instability.
The second panel discussion, “The Next Watch: Girls Take Command,” moderated by Mr Anand Tripathi, Residential Director, AMET, with panellists consisting entirely of female cadets, focused on the aspirations, leadership potential, and preparedness of young women cadets entering the maritime profession.
A special session on Psychological Health of Women by Dr Fareeha Naik, Counselling Psychologist, highlighted emotional well-being, stress management, and mental resilience.
The third panel discussion, “Limitless Her: One Voice, Many Worlds,” moderated by Capt Shoukat Mukherjee, Founder & CEO, The Naval Connection, explored leadership, resilience, and women’s growing influence across industries.
The programme concluded with the prestigious Shakti Ratna Awards, recognising exceptional women for their service, courage, leadership, perseverance, and contribution to the maritime community and society at large. Mrs Kalpana Desai and Ms Soma Tandon were honoured with the Shakti Ratna Award for their outstanding service to the maritime industry. Lt. CDR Vartika Joshi received the award for her courage, teamwork, and endurance in the Indian Navy, while Capt Ritu Kumari was recognised for her perseverance and endurance in the maritime industry. Mrs Nagamani Rao and Mrs Kalyani Sardesai were honoured for their exceptional service to the community.
The successful conclusion of VANGUARD 2026 reinforced the Maritime Union of India Women’s Wing’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces where women can lead, inspire, and shape the future of maritime with confidence and purpose.
Marex Media