The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), Madras Branch, will mark its 30th Anniversary Celebrations & Awards Night with a high-level knowledge forum on “Role of the Maritime Industry in a Circular Economy”, to be held on Friday, 23 January 2026, in Chennai.
The landmark event will bring together senior maritime professionals, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders for thought-provoking panel discussions addressing sustainability, decarbonisation, digitalisation, and future-ready maritime talent.
As part of the celebrations, two focused panel discussions will explore critical themes shaping the future of the maritime industry:
Panel Discussion I: Decarbonising at Sea – Onboard Carbon Capture and the Maritime Path to SDG 14
The first session will delve into emerging technologies, policy frameworks, and collaborative approaches to reduce emissions at sea and protect ocean ecosystems in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 14.
Moderator:
Capt. K.G. Ramakrishnan, FICS, Past Chairman, ICS Madras Branch
Speakers:
Dr. G. Latha, Former Scientist G & Head – Ocean Acoustics, NIOT
Dr. Ravi Raj Atrey, Country Lead – Ocean Centres India, UN Global Compact Network India
Dr. Deepak Samuel V., Scientist E, National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM)
Mr. Manikandan S., Chair, Blue Economy Expert Committee, Southern India Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI)
Panel Discussion II: Beyond Traditional Training – Preparing Maritime Professionals for a Net-Zero, Digitised Future
The second session will focus on the evolution of maritime education and skills, highlighting digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and leadership development for a net-zero shipping industry.
Moderator:
Capt. John Prasad Menezes, FICS, Past Chairman, ICS Madras Branch
Speakers:
Capt. Suresh Bhardwaj, Resident Director & Principal, MASSA Maritime Academy
Capt. Sundeep Inkurthy, Founder & CEO, SmartseasAI
Mr. Venkatesh Ramakrishnan, Head of Product Management, FrontM Ltd (UK)
Commenting on the milestone, the ICS Madras Branch said the 30th anniversary event reflects its enduring commitment to professional excellence, sustainable shipping, and future-focused maritime education, while strengthening dialogue across the industry.
The evening will also feature the 30th Anniversary Celebrations & Awards Night. The Awards are for students who have obtained the highest marks in the examinations in various subjects conducted by the Institute
