By Capt Mahendra Bhasin

I deeply mourn the passing of Capt. J. C. Anand, a legendary maritime icon and one of the most revered stalwarts of the Indian shipping fraternity. 

Capt Anand’s crowning achievement was in founding the Indian Register of Shipping in 1975. He also co-founded India’s leading maritime body, The Company of Master Mariners of India or CMMI in 1957.

A visionary leader, pioneer, and recipient of numerous lifetime honours, Capt Anand devoted decades of his life to strengthening India’s maritime stature and inspiring generations of seafarers. His extraordinary contribution to the maritime world, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and the legacy he leaves behind will forever remain etched in the annals of maritime history. He will be remembered with profound respect, admiration, and gratitude. 

In December 2025, he was honoured at the prestigious The Atal Awards ceremony in New Delhi. The Atal Award honours were presented to individuals for exceptional service, innovation, and contributions to nation-building, honouring the legacy of former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. 

May the noble soul of Capt. J. C. Anand rest in eternal peace...

'Om Shanti'

{The author of this obituary is a distinguished leader of the Indian maritime industry, CMMI Chairman and also, Managing Director of MSC Crewing Services