The event was attended by a distinguished group of senior maritime
professionals and stakeholders from the East Coast of India, with large
attendance from the Indian Navy, the Indian Coast Guard, shipyards, and
shipowners, including representatives from Kolkata, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada,
Hyderabad and Chennai. This was the second celebratory event in IRS’ Golden
Jubilee year, following the function held at New Delhi on 14th August
2024.
The Chief Guest
for the event was Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer
Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command, and the Guests-of-Honour were Commodore
Hemant Khatri, CMD,
Hindustan Shipyard Ltd., and Commodore P R Hari, CMD, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and
Engineers Ltd.
Speaking at the event, Mr.
Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman IRS, highlighted the growth
story of the organisation from its formation in April 1975, to an
internationally recognised ship classification society over the past five
decades. He thanked the maritime and defence fraternity on the East Coast for
their support. He also mentioned the
future trends in the maritime industry, with greater emphasis on environmental
protection. A corporate video was screened, followed by a presentation
showcasing the present activities of IRS and its ability to meet current and
future needs of the international maritime industry.
Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar addressed the gathering, commending the strengthening partnership
between the Indian Navy and IRS, stated, “Our collaboration with IRS has
grown significantly over the years, reinforcing the vital role both
institutions play in safeguarding maritime interests and ensuring operational
excellence across the sector.”
The Guests of
Honour, Commodore Khatri and Commodore Hari, appreciated the
services rendered by IRS to their shipyards, and congratulated the organisation
on the large strides it has successfully taken in enlarging the scope of
services provided to its clients as well as the organisation’s contributions
towards advancing safety and quality.