VASCO: Stating that India has a significant exclusive economic zone, the Governor, Mr Bharat Vir Wanchoo stressed to have an adequate well-trained and knowledgeable manpower for the successful functioning of the shipping and maritime industry.

Mr Wanchoo was addressing a gathering at the passing-out ceremony of the 15th batch of graduate entry cadets and 11th batch of diploma entry cadets of the Institute of Maritime Studies, Goa at Bogda-Mormugao on Tuesday evening in the presence of the chairman of Institute of Marine Engineers, Dr B K Saxena, chairman of Society for Industrial and Technical Education of Goa, Mr Ashok Chowgule and Institute of Maritime Studies’ Goa director, Mr B S Mathur. Altogether 113 IMS cadets made up of two batches passed out after completing their pre-sea training in marine engineers.

Speaking further, Mr Wanchoo stated, "Our country is on the threshold of being a superpower and so we need to work out new strategies for systematic and optimum utilisation of our resources including sea resources. Goa is a maritime state with a notable seafaring legacy. We enjoy an advantageous geographical position with a 105 kilometre long coastline, fine natural harbours, ports and an excellent inland waterways network. Besides this, Goans have extensive seafaring experience and prefer jobs in the maritime sector. Therefore it is obvious that there is considerable scope for Goa to promote maritime activities including tourism-related aspects." He further highlighted that shipping and maritime activities are an integral part of trade and commerce though this sector has undergone radical transformation in the recent past.

Mr Wanchoo further opined that considering its vast potential in the globalised world, significant emphasis is being laid on not only increasing maritime activities but also on producing skilled manpower to meet the growing demands of this specialised sector not only in our country but globally too. Mr Wanchoo also maintained that India has a number of important shipyards which are well equipped with modern technology and skilled manpower and are capable of building various kinds of specialised commercial and naval ships.

The guest of honour, Dr B K Saxena, while addressing the gathering, told that Goa is an important place of maritime activity and the cadets passing out from this institution have to play a significant role in the marine sectors.

Earlier, Mr Chowgule welcomed the Governor and other dignitaries. He enumerated the history of the society and coming together of the shipbuilding society of Goa was essential to set up high standard institute to provide skilled manpower to the shipbuilding industry of Goa. He disclosed that the hundreds of students from economically weaker section from Goa have benefited from this institute as they are now drawing high salaries in merchant navy.

Various prizes were presented to the deserving and best-performed cadets at the hands of the Governor and distinguished guests. The all rounder performance award was presented to Mr Anand Kumar Pal, fine marine engineers award was presented to Mr Prajyot Khushali Raut Dessai, most promising marine engineer award was handed over to Mr S N Chodankar, most proficient marine engineer award was presented to Mr Yuvraja Muttu, best performance-I award and best performance-II award were presented to Mr Anand Kumar Pal and Mr Ishant Atri respectively. The IMS Goa director, Mr B S Mathur proposed the vote of thanks.