National Maritime Day, celebrated annually in India on April 5, honours those who spend months at sea, contributing to India's trade. It also commemorates the inaugural voyage of the first Indian-owned ship. The National Maritime Day offers an opportunity to emphasise the role of the maritime industry in India's economic growth and highlights the sacrifice of seafarers who not only run the trade but also partake in national security by deterring pirate attacks.
History and Significance
The National Maritime Day was first celebrated in 1964 by the Ministry
of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. This year will mark the 61st National
Maritime Day. The day not only celebrates India’s maritime might, but also
commemorates the inaugural voyage of the first Indian-owned ship, SS Loyalty
from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919.
The maiden voyage of SS Loyalty symbolised India’s aspiration of
becoming a key stakeholder in the maritime sector. The SS Loyalty also put a
dent in the monopoly of the British shipping companies.
The day serves as a platform to highlight issues affecting the maritime industry such as ocean pollution, lack of global cooperation to ensure safe voyages, and improving working conditions for ship and port workers.
How it is celebrated
The National Maritime Day celebrations are held across the country, but
major ports such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Kandla, and Visakhapatnam see
special government-supported events such as seminars, medical camps, and blood
donation drives.
The National Maritime Day celebrations include observing the Merchant
Navy Flag Day and the Wreath Laying Ceremony to honour the sailors who lost
their lives in the First and Second world wars.
On National Maritime Day, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
presents the Sagar Samman Awards to those who display “exceptional and
outstanding all-round and leadership” and “outstanding bravery” in the maritime
sector.
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