World Maritime Day was initially observed in 1978 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the IMO Convention's implementation. Global celebrations are conducted to highlight the significance of shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment, while underscoring a specific facet of the IMO's initiatives. World Maritime Day observances typically occur in the final week of September.

Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta (Retd) deliveres a message on 26th September, the World Maritime Day. "My greetings to all Indian citizens on the occasion of World Maritime Day 2024, especially to those people whose lives are closely connected to the seas. It is my belief that India can realise its 'Amrit Kaal' dream only if it realises its maritime potential."

"Our Maritime Blindness for several decades since our Independence has cost us heavily. Fortunately, over the last decade or so, there has been a growing realisation that our future prosperity can never be delinked from the oceans." he said.

"India fares poorly on all parameters of maritime strength - be it shipbuilding, shipping, ports, oceanographic research, deep sea fishing or maritime infrastructure.  This is compounded by less than adequate maritime skilling of our workforce. It is time to set things right and realise our true maritime potential. Towards this aim, recent initiatives by the GoI like announcement of the Maritime Development Fund and a fresh impetus to ports and maritime infrastructure are laudable." Dasgupta stated.

"Once again, I extend my greetings to fellow citizens and seafarers. May Lord Varuna shower His benevolence upon India's maritime future." Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta said.

About Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta

Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VSM, is a retired Indian Navy officer. He held the position of Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command. He previously held the position of Chief of Staff of ENC from 2020 to 2021, Controller of Personnel Services at Naval HQ from 2019 to 2020, and Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF) from 2016 to 2018.