INSA, which
represents the interests of Indian shipping companies, plays a pivotal role in
advancing India’s maritime sector through fleet development, maritime
education, and active engagement with national and international regulatory
authorities. Its inclusion in ICS is expected to bring valuable regional
insights and industry expertise as the global body continues to advocate for
practical solutions on key issues including seafarer welfare, digitalisation,
decarbonisation, and ship recycling.
Welcoming the
development, Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of ICS, said he was delighted
to welcome INSA into the organisation. He highlighted India’s growing
importance in global shipping, not only through its expanding fleet and
maritime industry, but also through its strong maritime education ecosystem and
strategic contribution to international trade. He noted that INSA’s participation would be especially valuable as ICS
addresses the evolving challenges and opportunities facing the global shipping
industry.
Anil Devli, CEO of
INSA, described the membership as an important milestone for both the
association and the Indian shipping community. He emphasised that as global
shipping evolves amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, it is vital for Indian
shipping companies to actively contribute to international discussions and
policymaking. He added that INSA looks forward to working closely with ICS
members to promote a safe, sustainable, and efficient global shipping industry,
while ensuring that India’s perspectives are effectively represented at global
forums, particularly at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
ICS represents national shipowners’ associations and
shipping companies from more than 40 countries and territories across Asia,
Europe, the Americas, and Africa, covering the majority of the global merchant
fleet. The addition of INSA further reinforces ICS’s commitment to inclusive
global representation and collaboration across all major maritime regions.