The History of National Maritime Day

National Maritime Day is celebrated on April 5 across the country to commemorate the sailing of India's first commercial vessel SS Loyalty. The ship sailed from Mumbai to London. National Maritime Day is to recognize the contribution of maritime trade to the growth of the Indian economy and the importance of India's strategic position in international trade. The day is celebrated on April 5 to spread awareness about international trade and economics. During the day's celebrations, the "NMD Award of Excellence" is usually conferred to recognize and honor individuals for their lifetime significant and exceptional achievements in the Indian maritime sector at a senior level.

History was made in Indian navigation when SS Loyalty, the first ship of the Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd., traveled to the United Kingdom. This was a crucial step in the history of Indian shipping when the sea lanes were controlled by the British. Let us tell you that this day was first celebrated on April 5, 1964, to inform people and spread awareness about intercontinental trade and the economy around the world.

National Maritime Day 2023 is being celebrated this year with the theme 'Amrit Kaal in Shipping'. The 60th anniversary of the event is aimed at thanking the men who spend countless months at sea and drive much of India's trade and commerce on a global scale.

The theme of the 59th edition of National Maritime Day 2022 is "Sustainable Transport after Covid-19"

The theme of the 56th National Maritime Day celebrations 2019 was 'Indian Ocean - Ocean of Opportunity'. This day is celebrated to promote the global economy, the best organized, safe, and environmentally friendly approach to transporting goods from one corner to another.

Some interesting facts about National Maritime Day celebrations

? First celebrated on April 5, 1964.

? An award ceremony is also organized on National?Maritime Day in India for those who have made significant contributions to the Indian maritime sector. This award is known as the Varuna Award, which consists of a statue of Lord Varuna and a citation.

? The 'NMD Award of Excellence' which consists of a trophy and a citation is also presented during the celebrations. It honors and recognizes individuals for their lifetime exceptional and distinguished achievements or performance at a higher functional level in the Indian Maritime Sector.

? The “Outstanding Contribution to Maritime Education and Training” award consists of a trophy and a citation. Awarded to recognize and honor outstanding individuals for their sustained contribution to maritime education and training.

? In the post-independence period, the country planned a significant increase in shipping. In maritime history, the United Kingdom appointed the International Maritime Organization to protect the sea and prevent pollution from ships. In 1959, India became an associate of this agency.

? This association routinely convenes maritime conferences and proposes global maritime conventions.

National Maritime Day is celebrated to support the international economy because maritime transport is the most efficient, safest, and greenest way to transport commodities around the world. The day symbolizes the need to protect, preserve and defend our marine zone, as the full maturation and preservation of the nation's waterways are essential.

Article by: Abhishek Kumar