National Maritime Day 2026: 5 April

Current Context: India observed its 63rd National Maritime Day on 5 April 2026 with the theme: “Maritime India – Empowering Progress.”

• The day commemorates the historic voyage of SS Loyalty on 5 April 1919, India’s first merchant ship owned by Scindia Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.
• It symbolizes India’s challenge to the colonial shipping monopoly and celebrates maritime heritage.
• Today, India’s maritime sector handles 95% of trade by volume and supplies trained seafarers globally.
• 2026 focus areas include Green Shipping (Harit Sagar), Shipbuilding Vision 2047, and digitalized port operations.
• National Maritime Day was officially designated in 1964 to honor this legacy.

Question:

Q.1 National Maritime Day commemorates which historic event?
a) Launch of Indian Navy
b) First port establishment
c) Voyage of SS Loyalty in 1919
d) Formation of Shipping Ministry

Answer: c) The day commemorates the historic voyage of SS Loyalty on 5 April 1919, India’s first merchant ship owned by Scindia Steam Navigation Co. Ltd.