The Maritime Association of Nationwide Shipping Agencies (MANSA) held its 48th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Sunville, Worli, Mumbai. The meeting was attended by MANSA members, Past Presidents and the Association’s Auditor.

During the AGM, Shri Yogesh Shah was elected President of MANSA. A maritime professional with extensive industry experience and knowledge, Shri Shah will lead the Association alongside Capt. Manoj Budania and Mr. Santosh Gurav, who were elected Vice Presidents.

Mr. Vispi Badhniwalla, Capt. Viki Majumdar, Mr. Ashok Poojary, Mr. Sanjay Lad, Ms. Barkha Bhawani, Mr. Nityanand Rao, Mr. Mayur Vichare, Mr. Mayur Singh and Mr. Kalpesh Raval were elected to the Executive Committee.

The new leadership is expected to further strengthen MANSA’s position as a pathbreaker and guiding force for the shipping agency fraternity while addressing the emerging challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Outgoing President Mr. Sanjay Dalvi described it as both a pleasure and a privilege to have had the opportunity to serve MANSA. Reflecting on his tenure, he noted that, with the tremendous support of his team, the Association had gained significant momentum and pursued several critical industry issues with determination.

Mr. Dalvi expressed his sincere appreciation to the office-bearers, Executive Committee Members and the entire MANSA membership for their support and contributions. He emphasised that the progress achieved during his tenure was the result of collective effort, teamwork and the unwavering commitment of the MANSA fraternity.

He extended his best wishes to Shri Yogesh Shah, Capt. Manoj Budania, Mr. Santosh Gurav and the newly elected Executive Committee Members, expressing confidence that MANSA would be in capable hands.

Shri Yogesh Shah was unable to attend the AGM owing to a spinal condition for which he had been advised to rest. In a written address, however, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead MANSA and outlined his vision and priorities for the Association.

He began by conveying his heartfelt appreciation to outgoing President Mr. Sanjay Dalvi for the valuable insights, support and commitment demonstrated during his tenure, which had brought about several welcome changes in the Association’s functioning. Shri Shah also thanked Past Presidents Capt. P. P. Singh and Capt. Ram Iyer for their efforts to ensure that MANSA continues to move in the right direction and, most importantly, remains apolitical and firmly committed to safeguarding the interests of the trade. Outlining his priorities, Shri Shah reiterated his intention to prepare a White Paper identifying the principal challenges confronting shipping agencies at Indian ports. The proposed White Paper would also recommend practical solutions and be presented to the Indian Ports Association (IPA) and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) for their consideration.

He further proposed regular engagement with key industry stakeholders—including ports, terminals, immigration authorities, Customs and the Port Health Organisation (PHO)—as well as the respective ministries, to improve coordination and resolve issues affecting the shipping agency fraternity. Another important priority highlighted by Shri Shah was the organisation of educational seminars addressing matters of concern to shipping agencies, with the support and participation of other local associations and FEDSAI.

He also announced that MANSA, in association with NMIS, would commence certificate courses in “Ship Agency—Processes and Practices.” The initiative is intended to bridge the existing shortage of skilled human resources within the shipping agency industry.

Concluding his address, Shri Shah sought the suggestions, assistance, guidance and support of all MANSA members in taking the Association forward and achieving its objectives.

On the occasion, a Special Award was conferred upon Shri Mahesh Damani, Director of Mitsutor Shipping, Damani Group of Companies, India, in recognition of his steadfast commitment, visionary leadership, professional excellence and dedicated service to the maritime fraternity.

The evening was further distinguished by the presence of senior officials from the Mumbai Port Authority, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration and other key authorities from the shipping and maritime sectors including Mr. Shantanu Bhadkamkar, Capt. Vivek Bhandarkar and many of the Past Presidents.

The vote of thanks was proposed by incoming Vice President Capt. Manoj Budania, bringing MANSA’s 48th Annual General Meeting to a successful conclusion.

Source: Press Release 

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