Indian Seafarers Honored for Courage by International Maritime Organization

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has awarded Indian seafarers for their exceptional bravery at sea in 2024. Union Minister Sarbanand Sonowal praised the professionalism of the honored seafarers who averted potential disasters and saved lives. The awards will be presented on December 2, 2024, in London.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recognized the exceptional bravery and courage of Indian seafarers in its 2024 awards for Bravery at Sea, according to Union Minister Sarbanand Sonowal. The recognition underscores the extraordinary bravery and professionalism of Indian seafarers, Sonowal noted.

On July 10, 2024, the IMO Council honored Captain Avhilash Rawat and the crew of the oil tanker Marlin Luanda for their bravery, leadership, and determination. Their efforts, aided by naval forces, ensured the crew's safety, saved the ship, and prevented a potential environmental disaster, the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry confirmed in a statement.

Additionally, Captain Brijesh Nambiar and the crew of INS Visakhapatnam received a Letter of Commendation for their courage and effective use of equipment during a fire-fighting operation on the Marlin Luanda, following an anti-ship ballistic missile strike. The crew's actions prevented loss of life and marine pollution.

Minister Sonowal expressed pride and appreciation for the honored seafarers, stating, "This recognition by the IMO highlights the extraordinary bravery and professionalism of Indian seafarers. Their actions have not only saved lives and prevented environmental disasters but have also brought immense pride to our nation. We salute their dedication and heroism."

Annually, the IMO invites nominations from member countries to honor seafarers for exceptional bravery at sea. This year’s nominations, received until April 15, 2024, were first reviewed by an Assessment Panel and later by a Panel of Judges chaired by the Chairperson of the IMO Council. The final recommendations led to the prestigious recognitions for Indian seafarers, with the awards ceremony scheduled for December 2, 2024, at IMO Headquarters in London during the Maritime Security Committee's 109th session.