Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) strengthened its growing relationship with the defence sector by actively participating in the Maritime Exhibition (MAREX) during the high profile International Fleet Review 2016, organised by the Indian Navy at Visakhapatnam.
MAREX focussed on the ‘Make in India’ initiative by showcasing indigenous maritime capabilities. The IRClass stall, which was located adjacent to the stalls of Defence Public Sector Shipyards, was visited by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, escorted by Admiral RK Dhowan, Chief of the Naval Staff, and accompanied by the Defence Minister, Shri Manohar Parrikar, and Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy, and Chief of Materiel Vice Admiral A.V. Subhedar, amongst others.
During the visit, Admiral Dhowan explained to Prime Minister Modi the significance of IRClass’ involvement in developing Rules & Regulations for the Indian Navy and in providing classification services for the Navy’s ships and craft.
Senior officers from the Navies of Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nigeria, Oman and Turkmenistan also met with IRClass at the event to discuss international capabilities and services.
The International Fleet Review 2016 was judged a great success in terms of showcasing the Indian Navy’s preparedness and defensive strength.