#122 National Maritime Day 2025
Commemorating India’s Maritime Excellence India observes National Maritime Day each year on April 5th to honor the country’s rich maritime heritage and to recognize the vital role played by the shipping and maritime industry in nation-building. Historical Significance This day marks a historic event in Indian maritime history—the sailing of the first Indian-flagged merchant vessel, SS Loyalty , from Mumbai to London in 1919 under the ownership of the Scindia Steam Navigation Company. This voyage symbolized India’s emergence as a maritime nation with aspirations of self-reliance and global engagement. Theme for 2025: "Anchoring India’s Blue Economy" The 2025 theme emphasizes the strategic importance of the Blue Economy —a sustainable and inclusive approach to harnessing ocean resources for economic development, improved livelihoods, and marine ecosystem preservation. It calls for integrated efforts in green shipping, maritime infrastructure, and workforce development to ensu...