India-wide IMarEST Branch will Connect Marine Professionals

The IMarEST has officially launched an India-wide branch to support the country’s marine community in connecting and collaborating throughout the regions. Launched on 18 October 2025, this new branch is the latest global base, aimed at ensuring that IMarEST members everywhere can access the full range of benefits that membership provides. 

The reception in Bhubaneswar, Odisha included networking, dinner for 120 guests, as well as speeches that highlighted the Indian marine industry’s critical role in underpinning global trade. Headquartered in Bhubaneswar, the branch plans to host satellite events across the country to ensure maximum representation and collaboration for marine professionals nationwide. 

The launch was attended by our CEO Chris Goldsworthy and membership and professional services director, Naomi Taylor, who appeared alongside notable names including Dr Andrew Fleming (Deputy UK High Commissioner) and Mr Shri Deependra Singh Bisen, Deputy Director General of Shipping at the Directorate General of Shipping, India. Also in attendance was the new Branch Chair, Captain Mahendra Bhasin FIMarEST, MD of MSC Crewing Services, and Chairman at CMMI. 

Alongside Captain Bhasin as Chair, the Branch honorary committee comprises: 

• Captain. Gaurav Chhabra MIMarEST – Honorary Secretary 

• Mr. Debasis Tripathy MIMarEST – Honorary Treasurer 

• Ms. Sargam Pandey – Web/Marketing Coordinator 

The launch closely follows a two-day trade mission to Mumbai led by the office of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The mission focused on driving investment and job creation across key sectors, with IMarEST featured as part of the UK’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships." 

Chris Goldsworthy, CEO of the IMarEST said: “We are investing in India to ensure marine professionals there have access to our global community, which ensures the highest professional standards as well as driving the innovation and knowledge sharing.  We hope the India maritime sector will join us in shaping a united, safe, and sustainable future for the industry”