IMA UK: Transition in Shipping – the human element

IMA UK: Transition in Shipping – the human element By John Faraclas

Shipping is the attainment of Money and Seafarers; this is what I assert for over five decades in my speeches and articles, so earlier tonight I was more than pleased to participate in this IMA UK’s (Indian Maritime Association UK ) event at the iconic  IMO HQ on the south bank of the  Thames. A very well organised event moderated by Monica Kohli, a Senior Lawyer , FD&D at Gard (UK) Limited, president of WISTA UK and Chairperson  of IMA UK, the first ever woman president of IMA UK! 

Dr Jose Matheckial, TCID , IMO  welcomed everyone on behalf of IMO and spoke about the close Collaboration between IMO and the indian government. 

The  opening address was delivered by T K Ramachadran, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India. 

He also spoke about collaboration and the role of the IMO, India’s vision of maritime and taking the industry forward. He said they looked forward to working with IMA UK in realising the vision. 

Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, DG Shipping, Government of India gave the keynote address  and detailed the areas of focus of the  the DG. In particular – the seafarers, their welfare and the growth trajectory. He spoke about the shortages anticipated in seafarers and how india was aware and working towards being the bridge.  But rather than just the numbers he delved deeper into the well-being of the seafarers – the focus on their health and also on diversity – and ensuring  that  women are well represented in the industry. 

Chris Shirling-Rooke, CEO of Maritime UK was the next speaker with a brief speech on the connection and history between india and UK and working together . He spoke about being available and willing to assist the government and sharing resources. They have been working on the different aspects and invited everyone to access it. 

and finally Amitava Majumbar (Raja), managing partner; Bose & Mitra & Co closed the event by mentioning the long history between the IMAUK and the High  Commision of India, the various events he had attended as a child and how he was grateful to have assisted in facilitating this event. 

Akshay  Misra, (pictured above), vice chair of the IMA UK spoke about the 40 year history of the organization and also  gave the welcome on behalf of IMA UK 

Interesting questions and networking took place followed by wonderful Indian food  prepared by IMO’s head of catering Frances Sturdy; lovely fruity wines complemented this exceptional dinner followed by IMA’s cake! (see photo below).

IMA celebrates this year its 40^th Anniversary (1984 -2024); a milestone. There have been interesting events already this year; the last being Diwali at HFW’s new premises in the Square Mile.

India is about to become Planet Ocean’s Fourth most Powerful Economy; watch this space!