Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted the importance of the maritime sector on the occasion of “National Maritime Day 2022”. Recalling the “glorious maritime history”, PM Modi said that “in the last 8 years our maritime sector has scaled new heights and contributed to boosting trade and commercial activities.”

In a tweet, PM Modi highlighted the government’s work in the last eight years and said, “In the last 8 years the Government of India has focussed on port-led development which includes expanding port capacities and making the existing systems even more efficient. Waterways are being harnessed to ensure Indian products get access to new markets.”

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PM Modi further added that while the government is “leveraging the maritime sector for economic progress and building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, they are also taking adequate care to ensure the marine ecosystem and diversity which India is proud of is safeguarded.”

Every year, India celebrates National Maritime Day on April 5. This year, India is celebrating the 59th National Maritime Day. The first anniversary of the day was held in 1964 in order to raise awareness about international trade and the economy.

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The day is commemorated to support the global economy and express gratitude towards the Indian navy.

This year’s theme is ‘Sustainable Shipping beyond COVID-19’. On this day, an award ceremony is held to honour those who have made important contributions to the Indian maritime industry and those who have made great achievements.

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An altar of Varuna’s deity and a written text (statement) is awarded to those who have made a lifetime commitment to the maritime industry.

On April 5, 1919, a ship called SS Loyalty had travelled from Mumbai to London- when India was still under British rule. The ship marked the beginning of Indian commercial shipping.

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After gaining independence, India joined the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in 1959. The IMO is responsible for regulating shipping, maritime security as well as preventing pollution from ships.