Close to 300 Indian executives and decision makers in tourism gathered for the eighth India Shipping Summit in Mumbai early this week.
MUMBAI- The eighth India Shipping Summit got underway in the Trident Hotel, Nariman Point, Mumbai after a buzzing welcome reception on Monday attended by more than 150 of the industry’s key decision makers and stakeholders. It was a strong showing from the industry, in spite of the market downturn.
The main conference programme began yesterday morning, setting out to examine the unique challenges facing India’s maritime industry and exploring the country’s ambitions and what’s realistically achievable.
A powerful line-up of high-level international and Indian participants began day one of the summit by outlining the global position of India’s economy and went on to debate the implications of a slower rate of growth in India, feeding India’s ever-growing hunger for energy and the Maritime Agenda. More than 280 top executives from the shipping industry attended the opening day and the conference continues today.
The atmosphere turned to one of celebration at the end of the first day’s conference, when delegates were treated to a spectacular gala awards dinner. Four awards were presented to companies and individuals in different categories for their outstanding achievements in the Indian maritime industry.
The first award for Environmental Protection was presented to Vadinar Oil Terminal Limited and Mr Rajiv Argawal, Managing Director of Essar Ports received the award. The company was recognised for its innovation and best practice in minimising marine pollution and the protection of the marine environment.
The second presentation was the Education and Training Award and went to AMET University, received by Dr J Ramachandran. This award recognised the outstanding commitment to training and contribution towards improving standards across the maritime industry as a whole.
The third acknowledgement was the Maritime Infrastructure Award which was presented to DP World Pvt. Ltd and received by Mr Jamal Majid Bin Taniah, Vice-Chairman, DP World & Group CEO, Port & Free Zone World together with Capt. Anil Singh, Senior Vice President & Managing Director Subcontinent.
The final award was the Outstanding Achievement Award. This was awarded jointly to Mr Shashi Ruia and Mr Ravi Ruia. The award recognised the role that they have played in steering the Essar Group to its pre-eminent position. The Group is now a global conglomerate and a leading player in the sectors of Shipping, Ports, Steel, Energy, Infrastructure and Services. It operates in 25 countries across five contents, and employs 75,000 people. Unfortunately they were both in Delhi for the evening however Mr Shashi Ruia sent his acceptance of the award by video and the award was received on their behalf by Managing Director of Essar Ports, Mr Rajiv Agarwal.
Luc Citrinot a French national is a freelance journalist and consultant in tourism and air transport with over 20 years experience. Based in Paris and Bangkok, he works for various travel and air transport trade publications in Europe and Asia.
