India Celebrates 62nd National Maritime Day, Honours Seafarers and Charts Course for a Sustainable Maritime Future
With the theme “Prosperous Seas – Developed India and Youth for Blue Economy and Green Growth,” the nation sets sail towards innovation, inclusion, and resilience at sea.
Maritime News, New Delhi, India : India marked the 62nd National Maritime Day with nationwide celebrations led by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), honouring the dedication of Indian seafarers and reaffirming its commitment to building a green, inclusive, and globally competitive maritime ecosystem.
With the weeklong festivities culminating in a central event at the Vinay Marg Sports Ground in the capital, the spotlight was firmly on youth, sustainability, and India’s maritime transformation journey under the banner of “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.”
“The Ocean Connects Us to Opportunity and Progress” – Sarbananda Sonowal
Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal hailed India’s maritime community as “the soul of the shipping sector.”
“The ocean connects us not just to trade, but to opportunity, growth, and national progress. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, we are building world-class ports, empowering coastal shipping, and embracing smart innovation,” he said.
He described the maritime sector as a “force multiplier for Viksit Bharat,” anchored in India’s expansive Blue Economy, next-gen port infrastructure, and future-ready workforce.
A Week of Tribute, Training, and Transformation
From flag pinning ceremonies for state governors and the Hon’ble Prime Minister, to blood donation drives, wreath-laying ceremonies, and national seminars on the Blue Economy, National Maritime Week showcased a blend of reverence and vision.
The Delhi chapter of the National Maritime Day Celebration Committee (NMDCC), under the aegis of the Directorate General of Shipping, spearheaded the main event—bringing together policymakers, cadets, maritime professionals, and ministry officials in a grand tribute to the spirit of Indian shipping.
Youth in Focus: Cadets, Commitment, and Confidence
Union Minister Sonowal took time to engage personally with cadets—including many women trainees—during the refreshment session, encouraging them to take charge of India’s maritime destiny.
“Their passion and commitment reflect the bright future of our maritime journey. These cadets are not just trainees; they are the future designers, builders, and leaders of India’s modern seafaring landscape,” he remarked.
Maritime Spirit on the Field: Sports and Camaraderie
To promote teamwork, resilience, and community bonding, the celebrations included a lively series of sports competitions—football, cricket, volleyball, relay races, javelin, and sprints. These events echoed the unity and discipline that define life at sea.
Recognising Excellence, Rewarding Service
As part of the celebrations, the Ministry honoured individuals and institutions for outstanding service in the maritime sector, acknowledging their leadership, innovation, and enduring contributions to India’s global maritime standing.
Senior officials including the Secretary (Shipping), Joint Secretary (Ports), Directors, and Under Secretaries were present, along with 510 trainees and faculty members, reinforcing the Ministry’s institutional commitment to long-term maritime excellence.
Commemorating Legacy, Building the Future
National Maritime Day commemorates the historic voyage of ‘S.S. Loyalty’, the first Indian-owned ship to sail overseas under the Indian flag on April 5, 1919—a symbolic cornerstone of India’s modern shipping history.
As the country strides ahead with bold maritime policies, green port development, and inland waterway expansion, India’s maritime journey stands at a decisive moment—inspired by the past, empowered by the present, and focused on a digitally driven, sustainable future.
