In India’s strategic maritime goals outlined in the Maritime India Vision 2030, the inclusion of a Merchant Navy contingent in the Republic Day Parade is proposed. This initiative aims to raise awareness of the Merchant Navy as a prestigious career path, encouraging youth across the nation to pursue maritime professions.

The Republic Day Parade provides an exceptional platform to showcase the significant contributions of the Merchant Navy to India’s maritime goals, particularly the aim of increasing the share of Indian seafarers from 12% to 20% of the global workforce by 2030. The involvement of cadets in this high-profile event will inspire the next generation of maritime professionals. Historically, the Merchant Navy participated in the parade until 1975, and reviving this presence aligns with national maritime objectives.

The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), in collaboration with institutions such as the Indian Maritime University (IMU), the Centre for Maritime and Marine Engineering (CMMI), and other Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs), proposes to include a Merchant Navy contingent in the Republic Day Parade. This contingent will comprise 130 members, including 120 cadets and 4 officers, with a goal of achieving 50% female participation. The objective is to promote maritime careers and emphasize the sector’s contribution to India’s economic growth.