Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), in collaboration with the DMET MERI Ex-Cadets Association (DMECA), successfully hosted a seminar titled “Maritime Workforce 2030: Pathways, Progress & Preparedness – Shaping Future Leaders for a Sustainable Maritime Sector” in Mumbai. The seminar brought together senior maritime leaders, educators, and industry professionals to discuss creation of skilled, future-ready workforce and elevate the seafaring profession.

In his keynote address, Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman, IRS emphasised the urgent need to uplift the profile of seafarers, acknowledging their vital role in global trade and maritime safety. He urged stakeholders to position seafaring as a prestigious and aspirational career, not only at sea but also as a stepping stone to leadership roles ashore.

The keynote also called for the inclusion of Marine Engineering programmes at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), equating the need for maritime engineering excellence with India’s world-class aviation engineering and technology education.

The seminar featured two dynamic panel discussions:
Panel 1: Beyond the Seas – Career Pathways Post-Seafaring, focused on building structured career transitions for seafarers, exploring opportunities in ship management, classification societies, ship finance, marine insurance, and technology-driven roles.

Panel 2: Future Skills for Maritime 2030 – AI, Sustainability & Beyond: Examined emerging skillsets required to navigate decarbonisation, AI integration, digitalisation, and sustainability, emphasising the need for workforce adaptability and continuous learning.

“Seafarers are the lifeblood of maritime trade. By elevating maritime education, integrating marine engineering into premier institutes, India can strengthen its talent pipeline and enhance its global maritime leadership.” said Mr. Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman, Indian Register of Shipping.

Mr. Mudit Mehrotra, Secretary DMECA said “The seminar reinforces DMECA’s commitment to workforce development, knowledge sharing, and strengthening India’s position as a global maritime hub, aligned with Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives”.