Executive Chairman receives India’s highest maritime recognition: the Varuna Award
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) will continue to grow its footprints across the world with plans to open more offices in the Middle East and Africa, said its Executive Chairman Arun Sharma (picture), who received India’s most prestigious maritime award, Varuna award, at the 58th edition of National Maritime Day.
“We sees significant growth opportunities there and IRClass sets its sights on building long-term commitment in the region,” said Sharma who during his tenure as International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) chairman led the organisation’s rapid response to assist the industry during the pandemic. He was also the head of Small Group on Quality Policy (SGQP).
“Going forward, we will remain steadfast in our commitment to maritime safety and quality in India and globally,” said the marine engineer with a strong technical background.
The first wave of mitigative measures, which included maintaining the validity of certificates and allowing the sharing of IACS members’ exclusive surveyors, were quickly implemented to allow ships to continue operations and hence, facilitating trade, said Sharma, who started his career with The Shipping Corporation of India, he held senior management roles with Varun Shipping Company, Great Eastern Shipping and India Steamships. He has served on the board of Indian National Shipowners’ Association and on the Asia Committees of leading classification societies.
The nomination for the Indian award was done unanimously by various maritime industry bodies, said IRClass on 6 April 2021.
This highest maritime honour, instituted by the National Maritime Day Celebrations (Central Committee), recognises and honours individuals for their sustained and outstanding contribution to Indian maritime sector, as well as exhibiting strong leadership skills and decision-making that has inspired positive changes to the industry, said the shipping classification society.
Sharma said: “I am deeply honoured to be recognised by the Committee. This success can only be achieved with the unwavering commitment and dedication of our team as well as supportive industry organizations. I am grateful to have the opportunity to contribute in international maritime arena as the Chairman of IACS from 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2020 and as the present Vice Chairman.” #award #recognition #technology #maritime #investment /fiinews.com
