Naughtica 2026, the 6th edition of India’s largest inter-college maritime festival, was conducted on 20^th and 21^st March 2026 as a two-day event aimed at fostering professional excellence, competitive spirit, and industry readiness among maritime cadets. The festival brought together over 700 cadets representing 24 maritime training institutes from across the country, thereby serving as a significant platform for inter-institutional engagement and collaboration. Participation from premier institutions, including Indian Maritime University, further reinforced the national importance and academic credibility of the event.

The festival was structured around 15 high-intensity activities designed to holistically assess technical proficiency, physical endurance, leadership skills, and personality attributes essential for maritime professionals. These activities were curated to simulate real-world maritime scenarios, enabling participants to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, performance-based settings. The event was aligned with the contemporary theme of “Industry 4.0,” with a specific focus on the evolving human-machine interface and the increasing role of digital transformation in the shipping industry. This thematic orientation ensured that cadets were exposed to emerging technological advancements and were better prepared for the demands of modern maritime operations.

The event was further strengthened by the presence and address of the Director General of Shipping, representing Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), along with the support of the Maritime Training Trust (MTT). In addition to its academic and professional focus, the festival demonstrated a commendable commitment to inclusivity, with the participation of over 120 women cadets, reflecting progressive efforts towards enhancing gender representation within the maritime industry.

AEMA delivered a noteworthy performance by securing first place in the TechSkills event, with cadets Prabhakar Pal and Ramesh Ramani as winners, and by reaching the finals in both the NautiFit and Personality rounds, thereby demonstrating a balanced combination of technical competence and overall aptitude.

Overall, participation in Naughtica 2026 provided significant exposure to competitive environments, facilitated networking across institutions, and enhanced practical understanding of maritime competencies. The event successfully met its objective of preparing cadets for the evolving demands of the maritime industry while fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and innovation. It continues to stand as a benchmark initiative in maritime education, contributing meaningfully to the development of skilled and future-ready maritime professionals.