Webinar organised to commemorate National Maritime Day

Srinagar, Apr 5: The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre (IEI-JKSC), organised a webinar on the occasion of National Maritime Day, with the theme “Maritime India – Empowering Progress.” The event brought together a diverse audience comprising engineers, policymakers, administrators, students, and subject-matter experts, fostering meaningful dialogue on the role of maritime development in national growth.

The programme commenced with a formal introduction by Er Irfan Ahmad Reshi, MIE,

Honorary Secretary, IEI-JKSC, who underlined the significance of National Maritime Day in recognizing India’s maritime heritage and its growing strategic and economic importance, said a press release.

He also mentioned that India today commands a coastline of over 7,500 kilometers and an Exclusive Economic Zone of nearly 2.4 million square kilometers, with close to 95 percent of its trade by volume moving through maritime routes.

This was followed by a welcome address by Er. Ferdous Ahad Bhat, FIE, Chairman, IEI-JKSC, who formallly greeted the participants and highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between engineers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders in

advancing the maritime sector. He stressed that India’s maritime ecosystem plays a crucial role in trade, logistics, and economic resilience, and called for increased focus on sustainable and technology-driven maritime solutions. further emphasized the need to contextualize maritime development within the unique geographical and economic landscape of Jammu &

Kashmir. He highlighted that although the region is landlocked, it possesses significant potential in terms of inland waterways, especially through resources like Dal Lake and the River Jhelum, which can be harnessed for sustainable transport and tourism.

The keynote address was delivered by Capt Dr Bhaskar Bhandarkar, Chairman, Marine Division Board, The Institution of Engineers (India). In his insightful address, he elaborated on India’s maritime potential and ongoing initiatives aimed at modernizing ports, enhancing shipping efficiency, and promoting coastal development. He also discussed emerging trends such as digitalization in shipping, and the importance of skilled human resources in navigating future challenges. He urged engineers and young professionals to actively contribute to innovation and capacity-building in the maritime domain. He also underscored the importance of promoting inland water transport in regions like Jammu & Kashmir, particularly emphasizing the potential of Dal Lake and the River Jhelum as sustainable and efficient modes of transportation that can boost local connectivity, tourism, and economic development.

Distinguished speakers, including Er VB Singh, FIE, Immediate Past President, The Institution of Engineers (India), Er. Manoj Kumar, FIE, and Er BL Rawal, FIE also addressed the gathering. They shared their perspectives on strengthening maritime infrastructure, policy frameworks, and the integration of advanced technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the sector. Er VB Singh, FIE, appreciated the efforts of the organizers in conducting a timely and impactful webinar. He commended IEI-JKSC for creating a platform that encourages knowledge exchange and awareness on critical national themes, and emphasized the importance of continued engagement of professionals in addressing emerging engineering challenges.