DMECA’s Journey of Giving Back: Highlights from the Secretary’s Speech at the Annual General Meeting (AGM)

A Brief Report of the AGM 2024, Held in Mumbai on September 10, 2024

The DMECA (DMET-MERI Ex-Cadets Association) has always upheld the value of giving back to its Alma Mater and fostering a strong sense of community among alumni and students.

This year, the association has once again made tremendous strides in supporting students, faculty, and alumni, all while nurturing industry connections that bring value to our community. At the heart of it all is a commitment to education, collaboration, and professional growth.

Here are the key highlights from the Secretary’s speech at the AGM, showcasing DMECA's achievements, initiatives, and plans for the future.

Commitment to Our Alma Mater: Events and Contributions

This year, DMECA initiated several impactful projects, living up to its mission of fostering student growth and ensuring alumni stay connected to their roots. Here are some of the notable contributions:

Rs 50,000 Contribution for Tempest Festival: DMECA supported MERI Kolkata’s flagship festival, Tempest, with a financial contribution of Rs 50,000, ensuring the vibrant student community could enjoy and benefit from the event.
Boiler Simulator Transport: A notable logistical feat, DMECA facilitated the transport of a boiler simulator from Dubai to MERI Kolkata. This simulator will play a critical role in enhancing the training infrastructure at the institute.
Water Coolers Installation: Understanding the need for improved facilities, DMECA installed 10 water coolers across hostels in DMET Kolkata and 2 in the girls' hostel at the Mumbai campus. This effort significantly improved the living conditions for current students.
Training Support: In line with its goal of enhancing practical training, DMECA provided 2 life rafts, EEBD sets, HRUs, and other essential equipment for hands-on training at the Kolkata campus.
Advanced Equipment on the Way: Looking ahead, DMECA has already ordered a Fuel Valve Testing Machine and two fuel injectors for Kolkata, which are currently under customs clearance in Calcutta.
Seminar Sponsorship: DMECA sponsored the CCMORPOL seminar organised by IMU/MERI, with a grant of Rs 25,000. This seminar provides cadets and industry professionals an opportunity to stay updated on marine industry trends and innovations.
Supporting Everest Expedition: DMECA proudly supported Cadet Satyadeep Gupta in his quest to conquer Mount Everest with a contribution of Rs 25,000.
IMO Mock Session: The association also sponsored the IMO Mock Session for DMET campuses, offering Rs 50,000 as prize money to the winners, fostering healthy competition and practical learning among students.

These contributions reflect DMECA’s dedication to improving student experiences and supporting those who represent the spirit of our Alma Mater.

A Milestone Achievement: The Alumni Meet

One of the biggest successes of this year was the long-awaited Alumni Meet held on January 13, 2024, at the MCA Club grounds. With over 450 attendees, it was a resounding success, thanks to the tremendous support from our industry partners and sponsors.

Our Sponsors:

Diamond Sponsor: Gulf Turbo Marine
Platinum Sponsors: Interocean and ISR
Gold Sponsors: Anand Rathi, IRS Class, Neptunus Power, Jome Engineering, and EuroAsia Marine Services

We also received contributions from Turbo Power, Hexxon Marine, MIS, and SJV, who sponsored various sections of the event. In total, we had 48 sponsors, and such was the demand that we had to turn down some sponsorships at the last minute!

This overwhelming response speaks volumes about the support DMECA has cultivated in the industry and the pride our alumni take in staying connected to their Alma Mater.

Spreading Knowledge: Technical Seminar on Digitalisation and AI

DMECA’s pursuit of excellence in the marine industry doesn’t stop at events. On July 16, 2024, we organized a highly successful technical seminar in collaboration with IRS at their Powai auditorium. The seminar focused on Digitisation and the Use of AI for Improving Ship Efficiency, attracting a packed audience of cadets and industry experts.

With incredible participation, the event proved that DMECA is at the forefront of integrating modern technology into the maritime sector. Special thanks go to Mr. Arun Sharma and Mr. P.K. Mishra from IRS for their support, and we look forward to more such collaborations in the future.

A Testament to Solidarity: Fundraising for Cadet Ranjit Kumar

When Cadet Ranjit Kumar (Roll No. 5311, 1999-2003 batch) required financial support for his medical treatment, DMECA and our alumni came together in an extraordinary show of solidarity. In just three days, we were able to raise over Rs 33 lakh—surpassing the Rs 25 lakh required (In 72 hours).

This remarkable effort highlights the strength and unity within our alumni network. Kudos to everyone who contributed to this heartwarming cause.

Financial Growth and Stability

In terms of financial health, this year has been a strong one for DMECA. Our balance sheet is significantly healthier than in previous years, allowing us to pursue larger projects and investments.

Over the last two years, we have been investing in mutual funds, and with promising returns, we will continue to do so, following due diligence by the Executive Committee.

New Office Space: A Home for DMECA

Another major accomplishment this year was securing an office space for DMECA. We now have a dedicated space leased for two years at:

403, The Great Eastern Galleria, Sector 4, Nerul, Navi Mumbai - 400706.

This marks an important milestone for the association, as we now have a central hub to operate from and host our activities.

Publications: Gauge Glass Success

Gauge Glass 23 was successfully launched at IMU Mumbai on November 17, 2023, and was very well received. We are now working on Gauge Glass 24, which is expected to be released by mid-October 2024.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance

DMECA continues its tradition of supporting students and families in need:

The BRK Gupta Scholarship, in memory of Late Mr. BRK Gupta, was awarded to Cadet Muhammed Alkhaf A (2019-23) of MERI Kolkata for the seventh consecutive year. This annual Rs 50,000 scholarship is given on a need-cum-merit basis.
DMECA facilitated the collection of Rs 11 lakh for the dependent of Late Mr. V.K. Venkatesan, an amount raised by the 1981-85 batch.

We have also instituted two awards for DMET Kolkata under the D.L. Shah Trust, offering Rs 10,000 each for the best project and best technical paper, as determined by the Director of DMET.

Rising Membership: A Testament to Our Growth

Thanks to the persistent efforts of our members, DMECA’s membership has seen steady growth over the years. We have come a long way from discussions about our relevance just a few years ago. Here's a snapshot of our membership growth:

A special thanks goes to Prateek Khanna and the DMET Club, who have been instrumental in bringing more alumni into DMECA. With over 6,600 members, the DMET Club is a key partner in our outreach and growth efforts.

For a lifetime membership fee of just 5000 INR (Increasing soon), you can join DMECA today and become part of this prestigious community. The association's sole purpose is to give back to the alma mater and support its alumni.

Join DMECA: www.dmetclub.com/dmeca

Join DMECA

Looking Forward: Initiatives for the Coming Year

The coming year promises to be equally exciting for DMECA, with several key plans in place:

Annual Event: We are planning a Get-Together and Gala Evening on January 25, 2024, at Westin Powai, and look forward to the participation and support of all members.
Seminars: DMECA, in collaboration with DMET Club, will organise a technical seminar followed by an alumni meet in NCR Delhi in December 2024. Another technical seminar is planned with the IRS later in the year.
App Development: We are also working with DMET Club to develop an app for use by all alumni, facilitating easier communication and engagement.
Health & Wellness: In collaboration with Livlong, we aim to finalise the details of a health insurance and wellness package for members.
Online Yoga: We will soon be launching online yoga classes exclusively for our members, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

In closing, this has been a year of great progress and achievement for DMECA. We look forward to continuing our mission of giving back, supporting students, and connecting our vast alumni network in the coming year. A heartfelt thank you to all members, sponsors, and industry partners for your unwavering support.

This year’s AGM reflected not only our accomplishments but also the incredible potential we have as a united community. Let’s continue to grow, collaborate, and make a meaningful impact.