Marex Bulletin https://new.marexmedia.com Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:16:30 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://new.marexmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-marex-logo-32x32.png Marex Bulletin https://new.marexmedia.com 32 32 DGS Activates Quick Response Team to Safeguard Indian Mariners https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/03/05/dgs-activates-quick-response-team-to-safeguard-indian-mariners/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:16:30 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4258 ]]>

Delphine Estibeiro –

The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has announced a series of urgent safety and security measures to protect Indian seafarers and vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman, and adjoining waters. The move comes amid escalating regional tensions marked by missile and drone activity, electronic interference, and maritime security threats.

According to the DGS, no Indian-flagged vessels have reported casualties, detention, or boarding incidents. However, four incidents involving Indian seafarers serving on foreign-flagged ships have resulted in three fatalities and one injury. Authorities are extending full support to the affected families while ensuring the safety of remaining crew members.

To strengthen preparedness, the Directorate has:

  • Issued DGS Circulars 08 and 09 of 2026, mandating enhanced reporting, crew safety drills, and strict communication protocols.
  • Established real-time vessel tracking with increased reporting frequency through the DGComm Centre.
  • Directed shipping companies and RPSLs to maintain close communication with seafarers and their families.

In a decisive step, the DGS has constituted a dedicated Quick Response Team (QRT) under Capt. P.C. Meena, Deputy Director General (Crew), to coordinate immediate responses, evacuation support, and crisis communication. The QRT will operate round-the-clock, liaising with the Indian Navy, Ministry of External Affairs, IFC-IOR, MRCC, and Indian Missions abroad.

Stakeholders have been advised to maintain heightened vigilance, conduct voyage-specific risk assessments, and ensure continuous communication readiness. Vessels transiting high-risk areas are urged to adopt an enhanced security posture, with bridge watch and emergency drills against threats such as drones, missiles, and electronic interference.

The Government of India reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Indian seafarers and merchant shipping, emphasizing resilience and security of maritime operations during this volatile period.

Marex Media

Quick Response Team & Crisis Contacts

Core Response Team (24×7):

  • Capt. P.C. Meena, DDG (Crew), DGS Mumbai — 7039363939
  • Capt. Nitin Mukesh, Deputy Nautical Advisor, DGS — 9883280303
  • Shri Sushil Mansingh Khopde, Addl. Director General of Shipping — 9546345991
  • Shri Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping — 9435119100

Day Shift (0600–1800 hrs):

  • Capt. Bipin Dhiman, DDG, DGS Mumbai — 9867002698 (Overall Coordination)
  • Shri Santosh Kumar Singh, Shipping Master, Govt. Shipping Office — 9320490825 (RPSL/Company Coordination)
  • Ms. Prajakta Patkar, UDC, Seamen’s Employment Office — 9619693255 (Family Communication)
  • Additional support staff: Smt. Anita Sinha (9422779401), Shri Vipassi Bhamarkar (7974690449), Avinash Gaidhankar (8652739901)

Night Shift (1800–0600 hrs):
Major Anutosh Singh, Asst. Director General of Shipping — 9660099646 (Overall Coordination)
Shri Binish Verma, Deputy Director, DSEO Chennai — 9920581232 (RPSL/Company Coordination)Shri Gaurav Goel, Deputy Superintendent, Govt. Shipping Office — 9769349502 (Family Communication)Additional support staff: Shri Dharmendra Kumar (8505078103), Shri Bhupender Thakur (9993160561), Shri Rishi Raj (8862898378)

DGComm Centre – First Point of Contact:
Yash Desai — 9168269916 (2200–0700 hrs)
Email: support.dgs@gov.in
WhatsApp/Calls: +91 9004048406

Duty Officers:
• Somesh Kokate — 8451998483 (0700–1500 hrs)
• Murari Rupesh — 9518747611 (1500–2200 hrs)
• Yash Desai — 9168269916 (2200–0700 hrs)

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Leadership and Legacy Shine at CMMI Annual Dinner 2026 https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/03/05/leadership-and-legacy-shine-at-cmmi-annual-dinner-2026/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:03:32 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4255 ]]>

Pratik Bijlani

On 21 February, The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) hosted its Annual Dinner Function 2026 at The Club, bringing together senior leaders and professionals from India’s maritime community for an evening of networking, celebration, and recognition. The gathering reflected the strength and camaraderie of the fraternity, blending formal honours with vibrant entertainment, including a live band, interactive games, spot prizes, and a themed ramp walk featuring captains and their spouses.

The event was attended by prominent industry stalwarts including Capt MP Bhasin, Chairman of CMMI; Capt Mohan Naik, Deputy Chairman; Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping; Capt BK Tyagi, CMD of SCI; Mr Deepak Shetty, Former DG of Shipping; Capt Nalin Pandey, Chairman of CMMI Navi Mumbai Chapter; Capt BP Singh, General Secretary of CMMI Navi Mumbai Chapter and Mr Sanjeev Mehra, Chairman of IMEI Mumbai Branch among many other distinguished personalities.

One of the most captivating segments of the evening was the themed ramp walk titled “Three Generations, One Legacy,” symbolically portraying the enduring journey of CMMI. The presentation was divided into three colours: Red representing veteran masters and their spouses who uphold tradition and institutional wisdom; Blue symbolizing current leaders steering the industry with professionalism and trust; and Yellow reflecting the young and dynamic future masters driving innovation and inclusivity. Senior stalwarts, industry heads, and emerging leaders walked alongside their spouses, sharing brief messages of commitment, ethics, and maritime excellence. The segment beautifully illustrated continuity and optimism, honouring legacy while confidently charting the course ahead.

The evening also featured the presentation of prestigious awards recognising distinguished service and exemplary action. Lifetime Achievement Awards were conferred upon Capt Virendra Nath Aindley and Dr (Capt) K Vivekanand, while the Founder’s Leadership Award went to Capt BVJK Sharma. Capt Pravesh Diwan received the Founder’s Innovation Award, and Exemplary Action Awards were presented to Capt Biby Chacko and Capt Rajat Trehan. Additional recognitions included commendations for Capt VK Gaikwad, Capt KP Rajagopal, and Capt R Venkataraman Iyer. Senior officials including Mr Shetty, Mr Sushil Khopde, Capt Tyagi, and Mr Jagannathan were also felicitated for their contributions to Indian shipping.

In his acceptance remarks, Capt Aindley reflected on his long association with the institution, stating, “Having seen CMMI grow from a modest, low-profile gathering in the 1990s to the vibrant institution it is today has been a long and deeply satisfying journey—one I am truly grateful to have been part of.” His words resonated with members who have witnessed the organization’s remarkable transformation over the decades.

Dr (Capt) Vivekanand expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “I am deeply honoured to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award from a fraternity to which I have devoted over six decades of my professional life, and I accept it with sincere humility and gratitude.” His acknowledgement underscored a lifetime dedicated to maritime service and fraternity values.

Chief Guest Mr Jagannathan described the occasion as historic, remarking, “This is truly a red-letter day. The leadership within CMMI has consistently guided Indian maritime progress, and as we transition towards a new maritime administration framework, we must work together in partnership to shape the future of our great shipping nation.”

The Annual Dinner 2026 not only celebrated individual excellence but also reaffirmed CMMI’s collective commitment to leadership, partnership, and the continued advancement of India’s maritime sector.

Marex Media

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Repurposed Container Becomes Landmark Pavilion in Lucknow https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/03/05/repurposed-container-becomes-landmark-pavilion-in-lucknow/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:01:51 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4252 ]]>

DP World has expanded its Beyond Boundaries Initiative with the delivery of a repurposed shipping container pavilion and 250 cricket kits in Lucknow, strengthening grassroots access to cricket in Uttar Pradesh.

Transformed into a fully equipped, multi-purpose pavilion, the container provides young players with a dedicated space for training, preparation and rest. The pavilion was unveiled at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Cricket Stadium in Lucknow in the presence of cricket legend Yuvraj Singh. It will be permanently housed at Sage Cricket Academy. The 250 kits will support identified academies to expand access to equipment and structured coaching.

Delivered in partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, the initiative furthers DP World’s pledge to donate 10 kits for every 100 runs scored in ICC tournaments.

Yuvraj Singh said, “Talent exists in every corner of India, but access to the right facilities and equipment makes all the difference. Initiatives like Beyond Boundaries help bridge that gap, giving young cricketers the infrastructure and confidence to pursue their dreams.”

Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager, DP World, Subcontinent (India), said, “Access remains one of the biggest barriers for aspiring cricketers. At DP World, we believe opportunity should not be limited by infrastructure. We take pride in launching Beyond Boundaries in Lucknow together with the ICC, helping expand community access to cricket combining facilities, equipment and strong local partnerships creating pathways for young talent to thrive.”

Prem Manohar Gupta, Honorary Secretary, Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association said, “Uttar Pradesh has a proud cricketing legacy and a deep pool of emerging talent. We are pleased to partner with DP World on the Beyond Boundaries Initiative to further strengthen grassroots development in the state. Such partnerships play an important role in inspiring young players and supporting the continued growth of the game.”

Since its launch in 2023, the Beyond Boundaries Initiative has delivered 13 repurposed shipping containers and 3,500 cricket kits across eight countries. In India, communities in New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Chennai have previously benefited from the programme.

Leveraging its integrated global network spanning 80+ countries, DP World will continue expanding the Beyond Boundaries Initiative in high-impact markets worldwide, with additional international rollouts planned through 2026.

Marex Media

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Marex Bulletin – 5th March 2026 https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/03/05/marex-bulletin-5th-march-2026/ Thu, 05 Mar 2026 03:58:31 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4249
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NMIS 46th Convocation Highlights Maritime Leadership and Achievement https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/03/02/nmis-46th-convocation-highlights-maritime-leadership-and-achievement/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:11:07 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4245 ]]>

Pratik Bijlani – On 13 February, the Narottam Morarjee Institute of Shipping (NMIS) held its 46th Convocation and Prize Distribution Ceremony at the auditorium of Shipping Corporation of India, Mumbai, celebrating the achievements of its graduating students. The ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Capt BK Tyagi, Chairman & Managing Director of the Shipping Corporation of India Ltd, and Guest of Honour Capt MP Bhasin, Managing Director of MSC Crewing Services India Pvt Ltd, alongside distinguished industry leaders, faculty, alumni, parents, and students.

Established in 1969, NMIS has upheld a legacy of academic excellence and strong industry alignment, offering diplomas and fellowships tailored for working professionals through flexible weekend and online formats. This year’s convocation reinforced that commitment, marking not just academic milestones but also the professional growth of maritime leaders prepared to navigate a rapidly evolving global industry.

Chairman Capt Rahul Bhargava welcomed the gathering, describing the occasion as a celebration of perseverance and promise. He highlighted India’s maritime transformation through port modernization, multimodal growth, and national initiatives strengthening global trade leadership. Emphasizing that over 90% of world trade moves by sea, he reminded graduates of their vital role in an industry shaped by digitalization, automation, and sustainability, urging them to uphold integrity, leadership, and adaptability as future torchbearers of Indian shipping.

In his address, Capt Bhasin described the convocation as a defining milestone. He said, “Shipping is not merely a career; it is the backbone of global trade, moving over 90% of the world’s goods and sustaining nations. As you graduate today, remember that while technical knowledge will begin your journey, it is your character, integrity, and resilience that will define your success and shape the future of India’s maritime industry.” His speech was followed by the felicitation of organizations that contributed to student scholarships.

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the NMIS Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr Arun Kumar Gupta, distinguished alumnus and former CMD of the Shipping Corporation of India. A marine engineer with nearly five decades of service, he led SCI’s financial turnaround in 2014 and later steered India’s first overseas port project at Chabahar as MD of India Ports Global Limited. Accepting the honour, Mr Gupta said, “I am an ordinary person shaped by an extraordinary institution. Whatever I have achieved began with the strong foundation NMIS gave me—the ABC and 360-degree view of shipping. Opportunities came with challenges, but with teamwork, mentorship, integrity, and faith, we overcame them. This honour belongs to all who walked that journey with me.”

Mr Rajeev Nayyer was conferred the NMIS Honorary Fellowship for his distinguished contribution to maritime professionalism and education. Faculty member Capt. Shailesh Bhambhani was also felicitated for his dedication to mentoring students while balancing professional commitments, noting the transformative opportunities emerging from digitalization and decarbonization.

Capt Tyagi congratulated the graduates and underscored India’s maritime sector as a strategic national priority. He stated, “You are graduating at a defining moment for India’s maritime sector—when policy, purpose, and opportunity are aligned. The future of Indian shipping will be shaped not only by government vision, but by the commitment and competence of young professionals like you.”

The ceremony concluded with the distribution of prizes and certificates, followed by a Vote of Thanks by Mr Ajay Reshamwala and hi-tea, marking a proud milestone in NMIS’s enduring legacy of shaping India’s maritime future.

Marex Media

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Making Seafarers Future-Ready https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/03/02/making-seafarers-future-ready/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:08:44 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4242 ]]>

Pratik Bijlani – The 2nd edition of ATPI–Marex Global Crewing & Training Summit & Kashti Awards 2026, held at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Delhi Airport, New Delhi on 13th February, brought together senior maritime leaders, policymakers, trainers, regulators, shipowners, managers and seafarer advocates to deliberate on the most pressing issues shaping the future of global shipping. Convened in the national capital, the summit reinforced the growing recognition that India’s maritime ambitions hinge on the strength, skills and wellbeing of its human capital.

From shipmanning and training reform to digital transformation, decarbonisation, mental health and gender diversity, the conversations were candid, forward-looking and solution-driven. With more than 200 global maritime decision-makers in attendance—including shipowners, charterers, traders, brokers, government officials, training institutes, vessel operators, ship managers, captains and manning companies—the summit underscored the collective responsibility to make seafarers future-ready.

Delivering the welcome address, Capt. Kamal Chadha, Managing Director of Marex Media, set the tone by emphasizing collaboration and seafarer-centric transformation under the theme “Making Seafarers Future-Ready.” He urged stakeholders to move beyond dialogue toward partnerships that strengthen training ecosystems and sustainable workforce development.

Capt. Rajesh Tandon, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Advisors and CEO of FOSMA, outlined India’s maritime manpower ambitions, highlighting significant government investment plans and the goal of increasing India’s share of global seafarers from 12% to 20%. He drew attention to bottlenecks in onboard training slots and called for innovative solutions such as dedicated cadet training ships and structured trainer development programs. Stressing the importance of data-driven feedback systems and early career awareness at the school level, he advocated building a resilient and future-focused maritime talent pipeline.

Guest of Honour Mr. Amitabh Kumar, Former Director General of Shipping, lauded India’s 17% annual growth in seafarer numbers while urging a strategic shift to meet Maritime India Vision targets of 500,000 seafarers. He emphasized diversification beyond tankers into gas, bulk and cruise segments, segment-specific training including hospitality skills, and greater use of simulators to address sea-time constraints. His four-point focus—digital and AI readiness, green fuel preparedness, regulatory adaptability, and gender diversity—framed the roadmap for a globally competitive maritime workforce.

Guest of Honour Fredrik Bjerke Abdelmaguid, Deputy Consul General at the Royal Norwegian Consulate General, highlighted Norway–India cooperation in maritime training and seafarer welfare under the TEPA agreement. He underscored the growing presence of Indian seafarers in the global fleet and emphasized shared commitments to gender equality, alternative fuels and sustainable innovation.

Chief Guest Dr. Shishir Shrotriya, Coordinator at the Centre for Maritime Economy and Connectivity (CMEC), described the summit as a defining moment for maritime manpower development. He stated, “The ATPI–Marex Global Crewing & Training Summit & Kashti Awards 2026 in New Delhi is more than a conference—it is a collective call to action. By bringing together policymakers, global shipowners, training institutions and seafarers, the summit reinforces a shared commitment to making maritime manpower future-ready while celebrating excellence across the industry.” Emphasizing a human-centric approach amid rapid decarbonisation and digitalisation, he called for advanced training in cybersecurity, alternative fuels, IMDG and IGF Codes, and Polar compliance, alongside curriculum reform and faculty upskilling.

A video message from Prof. Maximo Q. Mejia of the World Maritime University reinforced the need to revise the STCW framework to address cyber risks, mental wellbeing and alternative fuels, urging experiential and technology-enabled learning. Capt. Sarabjit Butalia echoed these concerns, stressing that without genuine industry investment, research and empathy toward seafarers’ realities, progress toward 2040-ready competencies would remain fragmented.

Panel discussions provided granular insight into industry expectations. The first panel, moderated by Capt. S.M. Halbe, examined shipowners’ perspectives on evolving competence requirements. Participants emphasized technological agility, resilience, adaptability and stronger soft skills, with recognition that future seafarers must be digitally aware yet not digitally dependent. The second panel, moderated by Capt. Yashoverman Sharma, debated whether Indian seafarers are future-ready, concluding that systemic investment, cultural change and structured cadet development are essential to close skill gaps.

The third panel focused on fostering a culture of wellbeing, highlighting mental health, leadership empathy, data-driven health assessments and shared responsibility between ship and shore. Discussions acknowledged generational shifts, where younger seafarers prioritize workplace culture and wellbeing alongside remuneration. The fourth panel, “Maritime Careers from Classroom to Ship & Beyond,” explored strengthening awareness through school outreach, alignment with the National Education Policy 2020, and clearer career pathways from seafaring to boardroom leadership.

Marex Media

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Marex Bulletin – 2nd March 2026 https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/03/02/marex-bulletin-2nd-march-2026/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:04:59 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4239
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Putting People First https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/02/26/putting-people-first/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 04:15:27 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4235 ]]>

NorthStandard has entered a partnership with Signol to offer its members exclusive discounts on their crew led, behaviour change service. NorthStandard recognises the critical role of crew in ensuring safety on board and firmly believes that crew play an equally critical role in driving decarbonisation. Under the two-year agreement, Signol will cover onboarding costs and offer preferential rates on its monthly software as a service (SaaS) subscription.

Drawing on over six years of research into the barriers crew face when it comes to fuel saving on-board, Signol’s crew-centric approach to decarbonisation is designed to encourage seafarers to make fuel efficient and sustainable choices part of their daily duties.

With leading commercial and cruise ship owners among its clients, using existing data and existing processes, Signol has empowered crew to consistently achieve 3%-8% reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, for ship owners, charterers and managers alike.

“This is a highly innovative new benefit for members,” said Mark Smith, Loss Prevention Director – NNE and Decarbonisation, NorthStandard. “With Signol, a seafarer will see, for example, the positive impact they can have when they shut down an under-utilised auxiliary engine, or focus on keeping the ship within trim parameters. By reinforcing the positive impact of routine, day-to-day tasks that are within the control of crew, Signol helps enhance the fuel saving culture onboard and ultimately drive decarbonisation.”

Smith said the Signol service also motivates crew by recognising effective actions. “When goals are met, successes can be rewarded, for example by funding privileges such as upgraded gym equipment or by making donations to nominated crew charities.”

Harriet Hunnisett Johnson, Head of Maritime, Signol said: “We are delighted to be partnering with NorthStandard, brought together by our shared belief that seafarers are central to shipping’s green transition. As the industry invests heavily in new fuels, technologies and digitalisation, there is a huge opportunity that cannot be missed: the professional seafarers making fuel-related decisions every single day.

“At Signol, we transform fuel efficiency from a compliance topic into a source of professional pride, empowering crews with fair goals, timely feedback and positive recognition so that sustainability becomes part of the culture onboard. We know seafarers gain real satisfaction when their impact is visible and quantifiable, and they feel like true partners in the transition. Our partnership with NorthStandard allows us to bring that experience to many more crews and shipping companies.”

Smith said that the new agreement demonstrated NorthStandard’s strong focus on easing its members’ sustainability burdens. The partnership with Signol could be seen as an environmental equivalent to products in its ‘Get Set!’ digital portfolio for vessel safety. Further NorthStandard products and services focusing on maritime decarbonisation would follow through 2026, he added.

Marex Media

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Commitment to Seafarers Highlighted at Manila 2026 https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/02/26/commitment-to-seafarers-highlighted-at-manila-2026/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 04:14:13 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4232 ]]>

From 10-12 February, Anglo-Eastern Univan Group (the “Group”) hosted its landmark crew conference in Manila, bringing together approximately 600 Filipino officers and ratings, valued clients, and senior leaders from across the globe. The event showcased Anglo-Eastern’s evolving capabilities and its ongoing commitment to partners and seafarers on display, anchored by the theme of ‘Delivering Excellence’ fused with local inspiration from ‘the Balangay’, the Philippines oldest seafaring vessel.

Kicking off the main event at the Grand Hyatt Manila, Bjorn Hojgaard, Anglo-Eastern’s Chief Executive Officer, remarked, “While the world changes, the fundamentals of good shipping do not change. Our focus remains the same – prepare people as much as ships.”

Mr Hojgaard noted that while Anglo‑Eastern manages hundreds of vessels and deploys tens of thousands of seafarers each year, it is not scale that defines the organisation, but its standards, culture, and way of operating. Reaffirming that “the ocean is not just our workplace, it is our responsibility,” he highlighted the Group’s aspiration for a zero‑detention fleet — “not perfection for vanity’s sake, but discipline for safety’s sake.”

“What sets Anglo-Eastern apart is doing a proper job every day — our DNA is sustainable excellence.” Mr Hojgaard also paid tribute to the Philippines as one of the world’s great seafaring nations and commended Filipino seafarers for their skill, teamwork, humility, and work ethic.

The conference featured keynotes and presentations from Guest of Honour, Hon Hans Leo J. Cacdac, Secretary of the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) who was represented by Atty Jerome T. Pampolina, Assistant Secretary for the Philippine’s Seabased Division of the DMW, as well as senior leaders from across Anglo-Eastern who reflected on how people, partnership, and technology are driving performance alongside approaches that have been adapted to more greatly resonate with local talent.

With nearly 40 years of engagement in the Philippines, Anglo-Eastern’s presence has grown and has been recognised with the Presidential Award of Excellence — the highest national honour in this field.

The conference agenda also featured the grand opening of Anglo-Eastern’s new Philippines base located in 8912 Asean Avenue Building. The office brings together Anglo-Eastern’s Manila-based entities including Anglo-Eastern Maritime Training Centre, Manila (AEMTC Manila). It is designed to support modern ways of working while creating tighter cohesion between crewing and training departments to ensure that every seafarer is equipped with the technical competence, safety mindset and professionalism that the Anglo-Eastern name represents.

The 2026 edition of Anglo-Eastern’s Manila Conference was a showcase of the Group’s capabilities and demonstrated how it is continuously evolving to shape a sustainable maritime industry.

Marex Media

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Capt Gajanan Karanjikar’s Blue Bharat Unveiled https://new.marexmedia.com/2026/02/26/capt-gajanan-karanjikars-blue-bharat-unveiled/ Thu, 26 Feb 2026 04:12:48 +0000 https://new.marexmedia.com/?p=4229 ]]>

Pratik Bijlani –

On 10 February, the Chairman of The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) felicitated Capt Gajanan Karanjikar, Fellow CMMI, at the CMMI Office in Marol, Mumbai, marking the launch of his new book, Blue Bharat: India’s Voyage to a Resilient Ocean Economy. The event brought together distinguished members of the maritime fraternity, reflecting the industry’s collective recognition of a work that seeks to redefine India’s ocean narrative.

Among those present were Capt MP Bhasin, Master Chairman of CMMI; Capt Mohan Naik, Deputy Chairman of CMMI; Capt VR Krishnan, CEO of CMMI; Mr Kaushik Seal, President of IMEI; Capt SM Halbe, CEO of MASSA; Capt Amresh Jha, Vice President of Kanoo Shipping India; Capt Girish Phadnis, COO of MASSA; Capt. Nazir Upadhye, Managing Director of Sibamar Marine Logistics; Capt Pramod Kumar, Director of Eminence Marine; and Capt Amandeep Bhalla, Marine Head at D’Amico Shipping, along with other notable personalities.

Capt Karanjikar, a seasoned Master Mariner with over 35 years of experience, currently serves as President of the All-India Maritime Pilots’ Association (AIMPA), Senior Consultant at FMC International LLC (USA), and Managing Director of Cordelia Marine Services. Known for his advocacy in maritime safety, coastal shipping, logistics and Blue Economy initiatives, he has consistently championed stronger maritime governance and strategic ocean development.

Blue Bharat reflects nearly a decade of research and over a hundred essays examining India’s maritime opportunities, ocean governance and sustainable development pathways. The book articulates a comprehensive framework for India’s Blue Economy, encompassing sustainable ocean trade, coastal resilience, marine resource management and alignment with national initiatives such as Sagar Se Samruddhi and global Sustainable Development Goals. It connects India’s maritime heritage with contemporary policy imperatives, advocating integrated planning, innovation and multi-stakeholder collaboration to achieve a self-reliant and sustainable maritime future.

During the felicitation, Capt Bhasin lauded the book as a landmark contribution to India’s maritime discourse. He stated, “Blue Bharat is not just a book; it is a vision for India’s resilient ocean future. While Capt Karanjikar has masterfully penned it, the wisdom within reflects the collective strength of our maritime fraternity. His work transforms the idea of the Blue Economy into a national mission for sustainable growth and maritime leadership.”

In his address, Capt Karanjikar shared that the book was inspired in 2015 after hearing the Prime Minister speak about the Blue Economy in Singapore. He described years of research, policy engagement and academic pursuit, including doctoral studies in Ocean Governance with a focus on Marine Spatial Planning. Despite bureaucratic and institutional challenges, he persisted in consolidating fragmented ideas into a structured, actionable vision for India’s maritime future. He remarked, “I did not write Blue Bharat merely to publish a book—I wrote it after ten years of thinking, dreaming, and living the idea of the Blue Economy. From hearing the Prime Minister speak about it in 2015 to contributing to policy discussions, my journey has been about turning maritime passion into a national developmental vision for India.”

The discussion that followed emphasized the need for coordinated governance, authentic data systems, grassroots entrepreneurship and active involvement of mariners in policy and port leadership. The session concluded with a shared commitment to translate the book’s vision into meaningful action, reinforcing CMMI’s role in advancing India’s resilient and sustainable Blue Economy.

Marex Media

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