National Maritime Day: 5 April

Current Context: National Maritime Day, observed annually on April 5th, celebrates India's rich maritime heritage and the vital role of the shipping industry in the nation's economy and global trade.

• It commemorates the historic voyage of SS Loyalty, the first Indian-owned merchant ship, which sailed from Mumbai to London on April 5, 1919, symbolizing India's entry into global shipping.
• In 2025, India marked the 62nd National Maritime Day under the theme "Samriddh Sagar – Viksit Bharat Evam Neel Arth Aur Harit Vikas Ke Liye Yuva" (Prosperous Seas – Developed India and Youth for Blue Economy & Green Growth).
• The theme emphasized the importance of sustainable maritime development, focusing on the integration of environmental conservation, the blue economy, and empowering youth for maritime innovation and growth.

Question:

Q.1 When is National Maritime Day observed in India?
a) March 31
b) April 5
c) May 1
d) June 8

Answer: b) National Maritime Day is observed every year on April 5th to commemorate the historic voyage of the SS Loyalty in 1919, marking India's entry into global shipping.