Union Minister Shri Sonowal inaugurates India's First Maritime Simulation Centre at AMET University

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, today inaugurated India's first-of-its-kind Maritime Simulation Centre at AMET Knowledge Park, Maersk’s Centre of Excellence, Thenpattinam near Chennai. Also present at the inauguration ceremony was Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, Mr Peter Winther-Schmidt, Head of Trade and Innovation, Consulate General of Denmark, Bangalore, senior delegates from A.P. Moller – Maersk, and hundreds of budding seafarers.

The cutting-edge facility has been established through a strategic partnership between the Academy of Maritime Education and Training (AMET), a Deemed-to-be University, and A.P. Moller-Maersk. The facility has been established with an investment of INR 13.5 Crore, including support from the A.P. Moller Foundation, which contributed approximately INR 6.5 Crore (USD 750,000) to the project, further strengthening the 25+ year collaboration between AMET and Maersk.

The Maritime Simulation Centre features state-of-the-art technology, including Full Mission Simulators for Deck and Engine operations, Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), and advanced Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) laboratories. These systems will provide cadets with immersive, hands-on training in critical maritime skills, including watchkeeping and steering, collision avoidance, navigation light identification, and engine troubleshooting.

Mr. Rajesh Ramachandren delivered the Welcome Address, setting the tone for the ceremony and acknowledging the collaboration between AMET and Maersk.

Speaking at the inauguration, Honourable Union Minister Shri Sonowal commended the collaborative efforts, stating: "AMET University and Maersk have demonstrated exceptional commitment to nurturing India's maritime talent. This world-class facility will empower our young professionals with the advanced skills needed to excel in the global shipping industry. Such initiatives are crucial for strengthening India's position as a maritime nation and developing the next generation of skilled seafarers."

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