The maritime industry, experiencing a technological renaissance, has been often overlooked by the public in favor of the more terrestrial sector. As vessels ply the world's oceans, a wave of innovation is transforming everything from ship design to security protocols. Prem N. Tripathi, Executive Director, Mavi Marine Consultancy & Solutions has been at the forefront of these challenges.
Prem has exceptional professional experience and remarkable track record of success in this domain. His visionary approach is transforming the industry as he spearheads the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and offers innovative marine equipment and project solutions to Indian clients. Prem's profound knowledge of State of Art Technical solutions dedicated to Maritime Infrastructure & Security, plays a pivotal role in business relations. With a perfect blend of professionalism and a deep understanding of business dynamics, he is a true asset to the maritime sector.
Give an overview of the experience and expertise you have in the maritime industry?
My experience in the maritime industry spans over two decades. I started as an executive at a marine firm specializing in bridge Solutions, and later transitioned into heavy machineries solutions.
As my career evolved, I delved into the service side of the maritime industry, specifically in diving & underwater solutions. In 2015, I embarked on a new venture, Mavi Marine Consultancy & Solutions, initially as a small services and consultancy firm and officially became a private limited company in 2017-18. Throughout this journey, I've had the privilege of collaborating with Few Proven technology providers globally, specializing in field of diving solutions, lifting solutions, propulsion solutions, security systems, Underwater solutions, Robotics, Port Under keel & Dredging optimization and more.
Our focus shifted towards 'Make in India' initiatives, particularly in the realm of autonomous boats and underwater vehicles. We're actively engaged in Few projects, all while increasing the indigenous content in our solutions. From consultancy and services, we've transitioned into a representation model and now towards indigenous content development and assembly services, designing, and maintenance. Our current vision involves transitioning into a manufacturer for Marine solutions.
What key leadership quality is essential in this field, and how do you use it to drive your company's growth?
In this field, several critical leadership attributes come into play, and we focus on key aspects to drive the company's growth. Firstly, the most vital leadership attribute required is the ability to build and nurture a strong team, both technically and commercially. We prioritize our internal team's development, supported by experienced senior professionals core team. Secondly, we maintain a strong focus on client relationships, often engaging in projects, sometimes even without immediate monetary benefits.
Thirdly, our portfolio is diversified, ensuring we are not dependent on a single solution or vertical. For instance, we have solutions for River Information systems for Inland waterways, Port Technology solutions like Dynamic Under Keel Clearance (DUKC), Critical Maritime solutions for Ocean Research Institutes and vessels, Diving solutions for Naval applications, and we are now exploring emerging areas like autonomous underwater technology solutions.
DUKC solution, for savings on dredging costs, deeper drafts, more cargo, protection of Maritime environment and more,, recommended by McKinsey & Company, for Indian Ports. Mavi India did a successful trial of technology at Mundra port giving extra 75cm draft without dredging.
We have refocused our efforts on 'Make in India' initiatives, with a special emphasis on critical solutions. Our ultimate objective is to create indigenous solutions & contribute our bit towards self-reliance
How has the adoption of emerging technologies impacted the marine technology sector?
In the past two decades, the marine technology sector has witnessed remarkable advancements due to the adoption of emerging technologies. Take, for instance, the evolution of patrol boats. Twenty years ago, these boats operated at a speed of 20-30 knots and required a crew, who relied on conventional fire-arms for security operations. Fast forward to today, and we have autonomous patrol boats controlled remotely, enhancing both efficiency and safety at speed of up to 50-60Kn.
Emerging technologies like IoT, AI, and automation have also revolutionized defense solutions. Historically, India heavily relied on defense equipment imports, but in recent years, there has been a significant push towards domestic production. Our company is bringing latest technology & solutions to India and exploring more ways to make in India under ToT while engaged with few projects already.
Moreover, the use of autonomous underwater drones has highlighted the increasing importance of unmanned technologies in maritime security. These drones provide a cost-effective and manpower-saving alternative to deployment of security boats and personnels.
What critical solutions is your company prioritizing for indigenization, and how might they enhance India's self-sufficiency and prospects for exports?
Currently, our primary focus is on the indigenization of marine solutions – Putting together Indian components with Imported essentials and on the assembly of essential solutions under ToT with Proven Technology Provider partners. We're determined to introduce critical solutions that are not yet produced in India or if produced, not with efficiency & size, what we are looking at.
Through a process of gradual indigenization, we have already achieved a notable milestone where 40 percent of a particular project's components and solutions were locally sourced and assembled. Our aim is to build upon this accomplishment. We believe that, with continued efforts, we can achieve even higher levels of indigenization, perhaps reaching 50 percent and beyond. Ultimately, our goal is to have multiple critical solutions falling under this category.
Elaborate on the safety features and protocols integrated into your solutions?
In terms of maritime safety and security, We can divide it into two aspects: infrastructure security and security from threats. For infrastructure security, we employ pioneering technology, such as the DUKC system for ports, RIS in waterways for safe Navigation, Security Barriers to protect Maritime Installations and assets.
On the other hand, concerning security from threats, we are exploring to make Autonomous stealth High speed Patrol boats In India, and seeking interests from Security agencies. Similarly, Gater boats, Underwater Drones, AUV & ROV customized solutions are available per requirements.
Prem N. Tripathi, Founder & Executive Director, Mavi Marine Consultancy & Solutions
Prem N. Tripathi, a visionary leader in the maritime industry, with over two decades of experience, spearheads the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and offers innovative marine solutions. His expertise drives Mavi Marine Consultancy & Solutions, focusing on indigenization and enhancing India's self-sufficiency in critical maritime solutions.
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