Mumbai, 6 April 2026

 

The Grand Finale of the 63rd National Maritime Day Celebrations–2026, marking the culmination of Merchant Navy Week, was held on April 5, 2026 at the Bharatratnam Auditorium, Andheri, Mumbai, under the theme “Maritime India, Empowering Progress.” The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from key stakeholders across India’s maritime sector, reflecting the nation’s commitment to strengthening its maritime capabilities and global presence.

The Merchant Navy Week commenced with the ceremonial lapel pinning to President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, and Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, symbolising national recognition of the maritime fraternity. The celebrations were further enriched by a goodwill message from Union Cabinet Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, and a video message from Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur.

Cabinet Minister for Fisheries and Ports Development, Government of Maharashtra, Shri Nitesh Rane, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and emphasised the maritime sector’s vital role in driving economic growth and national development. Former Secretary to the Government of India and Former Director General of Shipping, Shri Deepak Shetty, attended as the Guest of Honour. Awards along with special recognition certificates were conferred to honour individuals and organisations for their outstanding work, exemplary performance, and significant contributions to the maritime sector, highlighting excellence and innovation within the maritime community.

The celebrations marked the culmination of nationwide activities such as seminars, blood donation drives, and awareness initiatives conducted during Merchant Navy Week. Aligned with the theme, the event underscored the sector’s pivotal role in enabling trade, fostering economic growth, and advancing India’s vision of becoming a leading maritime nation.

The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Deputy Director General of Shipping and Member Secretary, NMDC Central Committee, Shri Sudhir Kohakade, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and stakeholders for their valuable contributions to the success of the celebrations.

The event was attended by eminent dignitaries including Director General of Shipping, IAS, Shri Shyam Jagannathan; Additional Director General of Shipping, IPS, Shri Sushil Mansingh Khopde; and CMD, Shipping Corporation of India, Shri B K Tyagi.

PIB Mumbai | Edgar Coelho/ Priti Malandkar

 

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