Significance
April 5 is celebrated as the
National Maritime Day in India every year. It was on this day 99 years ago in
1919 when the country's navigation history set sail with SS Loyalty, the first
ship of the Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd started for the United Kingdom
from Mumbai (then British Bombay). It marked a red letter day in the maritime
history of India, a country known for its seafaring abilities since ancient
days.
The day is being observed since
1964.
One of the theme of the occasion was
'Indian Shipping - An Ocean of opportunity'.
Observations
On this day, awareness in
supporting safe and environmentally sound commerce between continents across
the world is stressed upon.
An award called ‘Varuna’ is conferred to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the Indian maritime sector on this day. Besides, those who have made distinguished achievements or made contributions to education and training in the sector are also awarded on the day.