International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Award For Exceptional Bravery At Sea:
Captain Avhilash Rawat and his crew from an oil tanker have received the 2024 International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea.
- They were honoured for their “determination and endurance” during a rescue mission in the Red Sea, where they faced a serious fire after their ship was hit by an anti-ship missile believed to be fired by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels.
- The IMO annually invites nominations from member countries to honour seafarers for exceptional bravery at sea who were reviewed by an Assessment Panel of experts.
- The panel’s recommendations were then reviewed by a Panel of Judges chaired by the Chairperson of the IMO Council.
- The final recommendations led to prestigious recognitions being bestowed on Indian seafarers.
- The annual awards ceremony will be held at IMO Headquarters in London on 2nd December 2024 during the 109th session of the Maritime Security Committee.
- The IMO, a specialised agency of the UN, regulates shipping and prevents marine pollution from ships.
- It was established in 1948 after a UN conference in Geneva and officially came into existence in 1958.
- It has 175 Member States, three Associate Members, India became a member in 1959.
- The IMO’s main role is to create a fair and effective regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is universally adopted and implemented. Additionally, IMO celebrates World Maritime Day every last Thursday of September to emphasise the importance of shipping and maritime activities.
