The 10th Convocation of the Indian Maritime University, a recognized Centre of Excellence (IMU), took place at the university’s headquarters in Chennai. As the Chief Guest, the Honorable Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, gave the young graduates an energizing speech.

Across six campuses and linked institutions, 2,198 students from IMU’s four schools earned their degrees. One MS (Research) graduate and four PhD scholars were among them.

The event was also attended by Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary (MoPSW), senior officials, special guests, faculty members, and the families of the graduating students.

“India is sailing into a new era of maritime excellence — with bold reforms, green and digital ports, and renewed advancements in shipbuilding and research. At the center of this change is the Indian Maritime University, a recognized Centre of Excellence that produces leaders who will influence the country, in addition to graduates. As India becomes a major maritime power in the world, our graduates will be the pillars of the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047,” said Hon. Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

The convocation emphasized the Ministry’s successes in 2024–2025 in addition to celebrating IMU’s academic achievements. These included the successful execution of the Sagarmala Program with more than 800 projects valued at over ₹5.5 lakh crore, the handling of more than 850 million tons of cargo, and the expansion of capacity at important ports.

The occasion underlined IMU’s position as a premier hub for marine innovation, research, and education. It is in line with the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047 and the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Maritime India Vision 2030, which both aim to establish India as a leading nautical nation by 2047. As graduates took the stage to support India’s expanding marine industry, the convocation ended in a spirit of pride and promise.

Priyanka Dutta