The 5th edition of The International Maritime (TIM) Conference, hosted by The Naval Connection (TNC), concluded with resounding success—marking a milestone year of innovation, collaboration, and maritime excellence. This year’s TIM was unlike any other, celebrating five transformative years of TNC’s journey with groundbreaking announcements, global honours, and the resounding spirit of the maritime community.

A Historic Opening: Vision, Growth & Global Recognition

In his opening keynote, Capt. Shoukat Mukherjee (Founder & CEO TNC) reflected emotionally on TNC’s incredible journey—from just 2 partnering companies to over 120 global maritime clients in five years.

Capt. Mukherjee proudly unveiled Aura Cisel Studio the personality development programme for students of maritime and the Students in Maritime Bharat Association (SIMBA) India's first visionary maritime students association

But the greatest moment arrived when Capt. Mukherjee announced TIM’s global recognition by NASA, with an awe-inspiring video message from astronaut Sunita Williams, praising TIM & IIM for inspiring youth and driving innovation.

“To be acknowledged from space… by Sunita Williams herself… this is not just our success—it is history for Indian maritime,” said Capt. Mukherjee.

Keynote by S. Raghavan – Maritime Excellence from the US

Flying in from the United States, global  thought leader and technocrat Mr. S. Shankar Raghavan delivered a visionary keynote. He was honoured with the prestigious 'Global Maritime Digital Visionary Leadership Award' for his lifelong contribution to digitisation and leadership.

Academic Powerhouse Presence

TIM was graced by the academic elite, including senior leadership from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Mumbai and Capt. Anish Joseph from the Directorate General of Shipping, reinforcing maritime’s intersection with the administration, business, technology, and leadership education.

Power Panels & Industry Dialogues

Thought-provoking sessions followed featuring leaders from Wärtsilä, Fathom Marine, 3 Cube Medicare, Shipfinex and The Nautical Institute, who discussed digital transformation, sustainability, and the future of maritime careers.

Special Appearance – Capt. Venzy Viegas, Member of Legislative Assembly (Goa)

Master Mariner turned legislator Capt. Venzy Viegas, MLA of Benaulim Constituency, joined TIM to inspire future mariners. He was honoured with the “Pride of Maritime Award” for his leadership and service to seafarers and coastal communities.

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