Married or Single ?

One of the main things which spring to mind for most of our readers, during the recent festive New Year season, is family and friends. But for a growing number, the traditional setting of parents and family exchanging good wishes, eating and celebrating together has changed. There is a growing trend, across a majority of cultures, for people to either get married later or remain single.

This has caused questions to be asked as to why this is happening. Not least because it is easy for many of us to focus on the now and forget how we are arrived here. The belief that marriage was originally based on love is way off the mark. The traditions, responsibilities and implications of marriage have varied considerable across the centuries and in different parts of the world.

If we go back over ten thousand years the idea of a mother and father staying together for longer than a few years, after a baby was born, was rare. It was only later, with the advent of settling down and farming land, that staying together as a family unit evolved. This was because it was seen as a way of passing the fruits of labour onto others – your family. A sense of wanting children, and society needing the security of future generations also emphasised the desire for family. It will be the exception that proves the rule, to find parents that do not wish to pass on their property to their family, in order to hopefully make their children’s life better.

Contrastingly current statistics show a marked trend to stay single rather than getting married. If you Google ‘Single vs Married’ you’ll find many videos and information that reflect this. However what is obvious; most of these Google results have been created by ‘Millennials’, people born between 1982 and 2004. They have grown up within the social media experience. Consequently it’s probably true to say that they view marriage as falling somewhere between to these two quotes:-

‘A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person’ – Mignon McLaughlin, international journalist and author.

‘Marriage is a wonderful institution, but who wants to live in an institution?’ – Groucho Marx, regarded as one of America’s greatest comedians.

Millennials generally value independence, coupled with a desire to explore and achieve self-awareness. This means that pressures to ‘settle-down’ and start a family are not at the forefront of their thinking. Of course some of us will recall grandma’s thoughts on this. ‘If you are not married by the time you are thirty, then the chances are you’ll never get married’. This concept was based on a belief that the single person will have become too set in their ways to want to change.

Because the single trend is recent and news always tends to reflect majority views, there has been a considerable amount of ‘bad’ stories about being single. Single people: –

Don’t live as long as those who are married.

Birthdays and festivals are lonely.

They can go weeks without any social plan. They are constantly depressed.

It turns out that most of the research for these statements was conducted before Millennials were born. More recent research does not sustain these facts as being correct. Indeed singles have a greater ability to expand their horizons. They don’t have a responsibility to stay in one place, in order to look after their family. Couples though have joys denied to singles as they:-

Are able to share loving experiences.

Are rewarded with their family growing-up.

Know troubles shared are troubles halved.

Can build-up memories and experiences together.

So when it comes to deciding which is better, the choice is really down to individual preference. It will depend on one’s own personality and the influence of cultural background and upbringing. Across the years and all countries types of marriage, number of wives and partners, has always varied considerably. History demonstrates that, over many generations, one style gradually gains greater recognition. Then, almost imperceptibly, it recedes amongst other choices.

What is clear is that being politically correct, in today’s climate, is essential. Just try finding a joke about either being single or married. You’ll soon run into difficulties about what you may say without causing offence. So as Kaleidoscope endeavours to be light-hearted, we’ll conclude with an anonymous poem, about a party. The choice of being married or single we’ll leave to you!

‘I gave a little tea party this afternoon at three.
It was quite small, three guests in all,
I, myself and me.
Myself ate all the sandwiches and I drank all the tea.
It was also I, who ate the pie and past the cakes to me.’

For better or worse, married or single, may you enjoy all your parties throughout New Year 2019.

Unique Joint Venture Between DP World and SMS Group to Revolutionise Global Port Logistics

DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGY TO RADICALLY IMPROVE OPERATIONS

World’s first high bay container storing system to be ready for 2020 World Expo in Dubai

Dubai, UAE/Dusseldorf, Germany, 17 December 2018: An international joint-venture formed by global trade enabler DP World and industrial engineering specialists SMS group will revolutionize the way that containers are handled in ports. A new and intelligent storing system will be applied for the first time ever at Jebel Ali Terminal 4, in time for the Dubai Expo 2020 world fair.

The High Bay Storage system was originally developed by SMS group subsidiary AMOVA for round the clock handling of metal coils that weigh as much as 50 tons each in racks as high as 50 metres. AMOVA is the first company to transfer this proven technology to the port industry.

Instead of stacking containers directly on top of each other, which has been global standard practice for decades, the system places each container in an individual rack compartment. Containers are stored in an eleven-story rack, creating 200 percent more capacity than a conventional container terminal, or creating the same capacity in less than a third of the space.

Thanks to the rack’s design each container can be accessed without having to move another one, enabling 100 percent utilization in a terminal yard. The system brings big gains in speed, energy efficiency, better safety and a major reduction in costs. Costs are further cut by the ability to shorten the time taken to load and unload mega-ships by as much as 30 percent.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, DP World Group Chairman and CEO, said: “DP World’s experience and expertise in moving cargo coupled with the technology of AMOVA will ensure the system is remarkably efficient and relevant for present and future operations. As a world first in our industry we are tremendously excited by its potential and groundbreaking features. Our engagement in new technologies is a major priority and we have become known for seeking ways that transform the way goods are moved across the world. Innovation is part of our DNA and at the heart of our success.”

Burkhard Dahmen, CEO of SMS Group, said: “Our subsidiary AMOVA has optimized this technology in industrial applications for the metals industry over several decades. The application for container terminals is a direct result of our “New Horizon” strategy, in which SMS transfers technology from the metallurgical sector to other industries.”

Dr. Mathias Dobner, CEO of the joint venture, said: “This new container handling technology allows cities to use their expensive and sensitive land and waterfront areas more effectively. Our system will significantly increase the productivity of handling ships on the quay. This means that quay walls can be shortened by a third. This disruptive innovation will greatly improve the financial performance of container ports, and well as their overall appearance.”

Chairman’s Message

As usual October is a vibrant month for the CSS Sales because it is when they specifically focus on their internal preparations, for the forthcoming Strategy Meet. The last 22 years have seen similar processes and preparations but, as always, our people display an enthusiastic spirit in their planning and actions. Consequently, the time of the year has arrived for all of us, at CSS, to sit together and review what we have achieved through our previous strategy and formulate new key plans to move ahead.

By carefully analysing the current business climate there is reason to be optimistic because there are some welcome upbeat indicators. The world business scenario is progressing in a way that justifies our confidence for the months ahead. To take advantage of these positive changes, we need to better equip ourselves with invigorated stratagems and programmes. It’s almost needless to say, that our annual Strategy Meet has always played a pivotal role in formulating novel and ingenious ideas for action. Once again, I encourage, and anticipate, innovative concepts and proposals being originated within our discussion at the Strategy meet.

Looking more immediately to the future, it’s indeed a pleasure to be able to announce that CSS operations will be commencing soon from Colombo in Sri Lanka. Expanding our services, and as a consequence our horizons, are events which make aspirations come true. By sailing forward, in such a manner, we are expanding our horizons in a way which will turn our corporate dreams into reality. Our future is looking bright.

Uncompromised Professionalism

CSS KINGSTON- A SUCCESS STORY FROM SHARJAH

The joint venture initiative of CSS Group and Kingston Holdings, CSS Kingston Logistics is sailing through its third year of operations successfully. With its strategic positioning inside the SAIF zone, CSS Kingston Logistics FZC (CKL), has got a significant role when it comes to service catering to the Northern Emirates region.

Initial focal area of CKL was Storage and warehousing within the SAIF Zone, however the company has grown to become the only authorised 3PL service provider today in the whole free zone area, with 110,000 Sq. ft racked facility. The racked space and infrastructure also comprise of a temperature-controlled area of 37,000 Sq. ft as well which is in high demand when it comes to storage of perishable items, furniture and other general commodities.

Catering to the Northern Emirates has never been so easy for CSS Group, till they had CSS Kingston in the right place. The fully integrated Supply chain processes, reverse logistics and the 3PL facilities within the system is controlled by highly experienced hands to ensure zero chaos. More than 15,000 CBM of cargo storage can easily be managed within the racked facilities of CKL.

“We know that the heart and soul of a successful business is a well-designed supply chain. The efficiency of product fulfilment throughout the shipping process is what drives revenue and increases your bottom line. Hence, we are committed to provide the highest quality 3PL services to our customers always” mentioned Thomas Mathew, Branch Manager, CKL.

Projects and over dimensional cargo go to the CKL open yard, a sprawling 45,000 Sq. ft, interlocked facility within the SAIF Zone. Well defined processes and infallible security system ensures a safe storage of your cargo here. The documentation division of CKL can manage Customs clearance in SAIF zone, Sharjah Aviation Services (SAS), Khorfakkan, Sharjah ICD, Sharjah Port (Khalid Port), thereby providing an enjoyable end- to end service to their clients. The well reputed names in the list of clients of CSS Kingston Logistics is an endorsement to their uncompromised professionalism in the area which they operate.

Onboard CMA CGM Kerguelen

VESSEL VISIT BY CSS ON THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF CMA CGM

What do we know about a cargo vessel?
We have only seen them sailing in the far away horizons. Some of us had seen the containers being loaded onboard the vessel. Anything more?? There ends the experience of most of us.

CSS COO for NVOCC, Chandrakala (CK) and Manager, Special Projects, Anitha Jaikrishnan got lucky recently with a unique Cargo vessel visit experience. That too to a prestigious vessel like CMA CGM Kerguelen, one of the biggest amongst the CMA fleet. This unique visit happened when CMA CGM invited both of them to visit their vessel, as part of celebrating the 40th anniversary of the company.

CK mentioned it as one of the greatest opportunities she got in her career recently. She continued that in order to maintain a solid understanding of the Cargo vessel and the staff on board, it is necessary that we must visit them at their place and understand the operations and its challenges. Anitha was also in the affirmative. The visit unveiled the opportunity to watch and understand the cargo vessel operation more closely. They met the Captain and other crew members, who described the container movements they manage.

CMA CGM Kerguelen is amongst the largest container ships in the world and has overall length of 398 m (1,306 ft), moulded beam of 54 m (177 ft) and maximum draft of 16.0 m (52.5 ft). The cargo ship has deadweight of 185,000 DWT and gross tonnage of 175,000 GRT with capacity for 17,722 TEU.

CMA CGM is celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2018 for which a logo has also been released. CSS Group relationship with CMA is an evolving one and has seen an exponential growth in the last 4 years. During this special occasion, CSS Group congratulates CMA CGM family for their anniversary and wish them all success in the future.

Jebel Ali to Jakarta

WINDER MACHINE AND EQUIPMENT FOR TREATING MATERIALS, MOVED BY CSS PROJECTS

Projects team at CSS Dubai headed by Sreenath, VP Projects handled movement of Winder Machine and Equipment for Treating Materials, recently. The details of the project move were shared with Lighthouse by the Team leader. The cargo was moved from Jebel Ali to Jakarta with much preparations in hand for a hassle-free job completion. The cargo volume totalled 1400 FT with SOC, OOG on Flat racks and break-bulk items.

“Handling multiple items on a single project always poses an exciting challenge. Moreover, it’s a great opportunity to prove your efficiency in the subject. All credit to our onsite team headed by Ratheesh, Projects supervisor, who enjoyably engaged with each and every moment till completion” commented Sajith Vijayan, Manager CSS Projects in Dubai.

The scope of work included Anticorrosion coating, shrink wrapping, Tarpaulin wrapping, Crating and packing as per the item requirement, the cargo loading and stuffing from the shipper yard, Lashing and securing of cargo onto flat racks & Transportation to Jebel Ali port. The scope also included all documentation and customs formalities.
The experienced CSS projects team conducted the required cargo survey and did a detailed study of scope prior to the commencement of the move. Each point of the entire project was carefully assessed to ensure a reliable and smooth journey of the cargo. CSS Group Projects Senior Vice President Raj George congratulated the team on the successful and timely accomplishment of the project.

Air Cargo to Lagos

PROJECT CARGO MOVEMENT FROM DUBAI TO LAGOS

Details of an Air Project Cargo movement was released by the Projects team of CSS Dubai. The cargo movement was executed to Lagos. The movement was successfully handled and completed by the team, specialised in Air Cargo Projects handling. 22 tons of Steel plates and pipes were air freighted from Dubai to the African destination.

“Hands on experience is an indispensable factor for a successful Air Cargo Project completion. Extensive Knowledge about the airline requirements and packaging specifications gives an edge for CSS Projects team when such need steps in” said Sreenath V, Vice President, Operations & Projects, CSS Group.

The scope of work included, collection and packing of the cargo as per airline guidelines and executing the air freight to the destination. Timely follow up with the airline companies and updating the client about the status of the cargo in regular intervals becomes crucial to keep the movement robust. The assistance from the air freight department at CSS Dubai needs a special mention here. They have done a commendable job in successfully executing this project.

The successful completion of this air project cargo movement has once again proved the trustworthiness of the Projects division of CSS Group, who have already in its kitty a long list of renowned Project cargo movements in the Middle East over the last two decades.

A Grand Get Together

WAREHOUSE STAFF PARTY AT CSS

The warehouse staff of CSS Group from the entire UAE region recently joined together for a party. The get together was organized at the banquets, Fortune Plaza Hotel, Dubai. CSS Management was represented by Ajay Krishnan, COO, Freight forwarding, Anil Kumar Director Finance, Sreenath.V, Vice President, Operations & Projects and Susanth Shekar, Manager, HR & Admin at the function.

The party witnessed some delightful dance and music performances from the staff side. The cultural activities were combined with games and lucky draws which intensified the party mood. Occasional get togethers often embolden the relationship between the staff amongst themselves and with the management. CSS Group has always been particular in organizing employee engagement programmes and staff parties to maintain a cordial relationship within the company.

The vendors of CSS, as always participated the event with generous contributions in the form of gifts to be distributed to the winners of games. Lucky draw winners walked away with cash prizes organized by the CSS Management.

A special thank you goes out to all the staff who helped organize this grand evening and participated the event, without their assistance the evening would not have been such a success.

“Why Do We Embrace This Industry and What Keeps Us Going?”

Like many of us, I came to this industry by chance. Since I was a young & living in France, I have always traveled; I was first intrigued by the USA, then Israel, Morocco, and Europe. I began my career in sales, selling Moroccan freight services for an Italy-based company. I never expected to spend the next 26 years in the shipping industry, working on five continents and traveling to more than 50 countries. In addition to my native France, I have lived in Morocco, Italy, Tanzania, Egypt and now the USA. As the years went by while working for various companies I learned every facet of freight forwarding and developed country-specific and industry-specific skills. I found my niche by applying the science of freight forwarding specifically to the Textile Industry, which fascinates me. This industry focus is a vertical approach that works well in our industry. Textile clients love and appreciate services tailored to fit their unique transportation needs!

Despite the technology which seems to infiltrate every aspect of our lives, logistics is still considered very archaic and old-fashioned when it comes to how we approach clients. This can be a great thing in a way because it allows us to personally communicate with our clients face to face and develop relationships, something crucial for success in the industry. Also, it’s incredible to consider that we are using Ocean containers, Airplanes, Warehouses, Trucks, & Trains much in the same way we did decades ago. Not much has changed since we invented the first container ship in 1956 (62 years ago). This is a fascinating industry built on years of stability, and a great industry in which to have a career – especially If you like traveling and working with people all over the world.

If you are the type of person who likes to be challenged every single day I can promise you that your customers, colleagues, and suppliers will fulfill that need. As we say in our industry “We are only as good as our last shipment!” The International Freight Forwarding Industry fills a great need for the international marketplace. As long as people are buying and selling goods across the world, there will be jobs and opportunities for us all.

I encourage you to embrace this industry and find your own niche within. Every day is different and I can guarantee you that having a career in this exciting industry will keep you motivated and provide great career opportunities. Simply put, this industry is fun and rewarding. I will share a little secret with you – Always think Monday is your first day at the office; be curious, excited and ambitious and your journey will be a wonderful one.

Stay well. Until the next Chronicle…

Customer Portal

CSS Group Portal updates its feature

As part of providing advanced, user friendly features for the customers of CSS group, the CSS IT department constantly update the group portal. The IT department has released details of a latest update made on the Customer Login interface. Customers are provided with username & password. Upon login they can view their Routing Order, shipments can be tracked using Track & Trace module with HBL and HAWB. Presently the feature is active for the Dubai customers. All updates related with the same will be informed by the IT department on a regular basis.

The CSS Group Has A New *Digital* Face!

We revamped the corporate website earlier this year to make it look like what it does today – new designs built from scratch, easier navigation to see what its respective CSS branches are doing and more. Visit the website and find out more features like Track & Trace! It’s #TimeToEvolve.

Activating CSS HWB online!
Earlier this year, HWB stepped out of the shadows and introduced themselves in the online world through their #MovingEmotions campaign. We got their Facebook channel up and running, encouraged the staff to capture moments through their newly acquired tablets, and brought down bits of paper work by digitizing docs straight into Google Drive. Plus point: they’ll be launching their outdoor advertisement campaigns on the 1st of November, 2018!

Our Social Media Hub is LIVE!
Online presence is super important, even if we are a logistics and freight forwarding corporation. We brought together our revamped Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages onto ONE platform for you to quickly peruse.

Warehousing in India

Warehousing industry in India is one of the prominent market segments in total Logistic Sector. Implementation of GST & various E commerce as the two important factors that have created significant growth prospects for the warehousing sector in India. Experts claim a total of approximately 43,000 Crore rupees investment scope by 2020 in this sector.
There are various factors which helps warehousing sector to boost to its peak in Indian market.

1. Growing manufacturing activity under “MAKE IN INDIA” campaign driven by current government
2. Rising domestic consumption
3. Increasing International trade
4. Increasing in Organic harvesting
5. Growing investment of Indian & foreign in warehousing infrastructure
6. Ease of Government rules is last but not the least

In present scenario the warehousing industry is approximately 560,000 crore rupees excluding inventory carrying cost which amount to another 4340 thousand crore rupees with a minimum growth of 10% annually. The industry although is facing a lot of difficulties due to improper cargo flows, improper infrastructure, limited capability of carrying capacity so on and so forth.

Industrial / retail warehousing is major contributor in total warehousing industry with its 55% of total market share followed by 14% – 15 % Share by CFS/ICD, Agri warehousing & Cold store.

Industrial Warehousing is approximately 310 thousand crore rupees market with a basic growth of 10-12% in recent past. Some major players in Industrial warehousing are DHL, Safeexpress, Continental warehousing, Indo Arya, All Cargo etc.

Agri warehousing accounts 15% of total market share with an annual growth of 9-10 % in past few years mainly due to growing annual agriculture production, standardized warehousing operations as per Warehousing development & regulation act, subsidy scheme & Tax Incentive. Key players in Agri warehousing are Food Corporation of India (FCI) and Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC). Although 30 % of Agri Warehousing is still operated by unorganized small warehouse owners.

Cold stores accounts of almost 16 % of total warehousing industry and it expected to grow at 15% per annum on a sustained basis over the next 5 years with the organized market growth at a faster pace of 20%. Some significant players are Snowman, Gati Kausar, Cold Star, ColdEx, Kelvin Cold Chain etc.

Last but not the least is Container handling & storage. ICD/ CFS accounts almost 14% of total warehousing market in India and in past 3 years it has grown 10-15 % with almost 90,000 crore rupees market value. Government initiatives, faster container rail transport & secure cargo movement is the main reason for sudden growth rate in containerized movement of Cargo. The government run CONCOR (Container Corporation of India Ltd) continues to be the largest player operating 48 terminals which handles EXIM Cargo while 14 others handle domestic traffic only.
In today’s scenario Warehousing is not only for storage and transport service it is fast emerging as strategic end to end solutions that improves efficiencies with organized & skilled professional services. The fast growth in retail, automotive, manufacturing, pharmacy and agriculture along with GST in India is expected to give a proper thrust in Warehousing & Logistic business.

DP World Reports 3.7% Gross Like-For-Like Volume Growth in 9m 2018

DP World Limited handled 53.6 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units) across its global portfolio of container terminals in the first nine months of 2018, with gross container volumes growing by 2.6 % year-on-year on a reported basis and 3.7% on a like-for-like basis1.

Gross like-for-like volumes declined by 0.5% in 3Q2018 due to the tougher year-on-year comparables (3Q2017 volumes grew 13.5% year-on-year), and softer volumes in the UAE.

The UAE handled 11.3 million TEU in 9M2018, down -2.1% year-on-year, with 3Q2018 volumes down -6.7% year-on-year due to the challenging macroenvironment and loss of lower-margin cargo. Growth in Europe remained robust with strong growth in London Gateway (UK) and Rotterdam (Netherlands).

At a consolidated2 level, our terminals handled 27.7 million TEU during the first nine months of 2018, a 1.6% improvement in performance on a reported basis and up 2.2% year-on-year on a like-for-like3 basis.

Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem commented:

“As highlighted in our first half throughput announcement, we have seen our volume growth decelerate due to the strong prior year performance and general caution in the market given the current uncertainty in global trade. In the UAE, the volume weakness in 3Q2018 is mainly due to loss of low-margin throughput, where our focus remains on profitable cargo and, while the near-term volume outlook in Jebel Ali remains challenging, we have taken measures to maintain profitability.

On our wider portfolio, we have made good progress in strengthening our product offering to play a greater role in the global supply chain as a trade enabler. We continue to focus on delivering operational excellence, managing costs and disciplined investment to remain the port operator of choice. We are also pleased to state that despite the softer volumes, we are on track to meet market expectations.”

Businessmen And Investors

Who came first? The chicken or the egg ? The egg cannot “come” so it obviously was the chicken. The centuries old question has been solved.

Ok lets try another question. Who came first, the son or his father? Its son because only after he was born, did his father become a father.

If you notice, the world is no longer “confused.” Its very clear on a lot of things. Well only in the talking aspect of things. We have learnt to have quick answers to so called tough questions due to the art of articulation and not necessarily having a proper answer.

Talking is free. So it really doesn’t matter these days on what one says. But in this whirlpool culture, the ones who have been caught on the wrong side and are “paying “for it are the businessmen or entrepreneurs. Let me tell you how.

A humble Indian guy became a barber. He was good at his work and slowly gained prominence in his field and was going steady till “ They” came to him one day. They now sold their “dream” template to him, as they do to several innocent businessmen. They are the powerful liquidity carriers and dream sellers called Investors. Suddenly he came up with several barber shops, added more through franchise model, added top line to his business, did a brand valuation and voila was ready for an IPO ( initial public offering or share issue ) of 600 million Indian rupees. His name is Javed Habib. God knows about the IPO but his dreams still live on as long as some private investors keep coming in and out of his balance sheet.

A small retailer of flavoured milk in Delhi had these investor visitors one day. From selling nice fresh Delhi milk in several flavours, he has now become what we call “Keventers” today. Valued recently at 1100 Indian crores.

By the way if you sell a single finger on your hand for 1 million, both your hands are valued at 10 million and the entire body at 1000 million, this is how “Value” is decided these days.

So several businesses, which needn’t have any scale in themselves, are scaled up through liquidity. Barber, milk seller are examples I have used above. But the real issue is that today, with this becoming common knowledge to all, most businessmen have started to dream this big valuation theory, forgetting that hot money that investors carry can pull down the business if we dont focus on what the business needs and do what the investors need. Let me give an example:

Indian Banks.

The banking story is such that investors earlier took “Loan Growth” as a parameter to judge a banks performance and valuation. So banks stopped seeing what needs to be done with their own banking business and rather wanted lofty valuations for themselves and their owners for which they incessantly went on lending lending lending to match the criteria of the investors “ Loan Growth Valuation Theory” Now, because they didn’t do what the business needed, which is loan disbursement diligence, suddenly we have a banking crisis. Look here what happens, the same investors suddenly pull out the hot money from such banks and deploy it to banks where there is lesser loan growth but asset quality is good. Which means HDFC bank is the clear winner because it never went into the wholesale loan business inspite of the world doing it at the cost of its own growth. It did what the business needed and here you are today. India has a 12 lac crore banking NPA crisis. So see how investors changed their parameters overnight, This is the caution that businessmen need to take.

Work for the needs of the Business and not the Investors. They will follow you as long as your business is right. Never forget this mantra ever. You don’t chase investors, let them chase you.

In our logistics field, the investors have made “top-line” as a parameter today. In E-commerce and logistics, they say, profit is not important, top-line is everything. And we are all swayed by the glamorous stories of loss making dot coms who have sky high valuations. Logistics companies having 3-4 % PAT levels but market caps decided by top-lines. Top companies have even given internal long term messages on “top-line” sales like 2 billion ( those who know will know which company i am referring to).

To aid this top-line growth, balance sheets are being loaded on the debt side. Equity is being diluted. Bad customers are bought into the system. Systemic risks are created due to easy terms to customers. The party is on and the valuations are on the books and exchanges. But I can assure you that every businessman true to his heart will never like it deep within him. He knows well that what he is doing is not good for the business, its only good for his valuation. The parameter given by the Investors. Let him not forget that hot money has no loyalty to anyone. Be loyal to your business and its goals and do what is needed to be done. Not what they want us to do. I am sure the day is not far when all eyes will open and the parameter changed to : Bottom -line” Till then, keep swimming.

Redefining Indian Law On Arrest of Non-Owned Ships: Sunil B. Naik V. Geowave Commander:- A Review

The Supreme Court of India, on 9th March 2018, marked a milestone in the field of Admiralty law while deciding the case, Sunil B. Naik v. Geowave Commander by incorporating the principle that there cannot be an arrest or restraint of a vessel in possession of a non-owner, but owned by a complete third party, for a maritime claim against the former. The Admiralty law in India regarding this was silent. It was this huge uncertainty that was set aside by the apex court through the above decision.

The facts of the case are as follows-Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. awarded a contract to one Reflect Geophysical (a Singapore based company) to carry out seismic survey off the coast of Gujarat near Okha port in 2012. Reflect Geophysical then entered into a bareboat Charter Party Agreement dated 29.06.2012 to charter the vessel ‘Geowave Commander’ from Master and Commander AS, registered in Norway, for 3 three years.

Later, Reflect Geophysical contracted with one Yusuf Abdul Gani (on 01.10.2012) and one Sunil B Naik (on 30.10.2012), to give on hire the vessel ‘Orion Laxmi’ to work in support (like towage duty) and 24 fishing trawlers being the chase vessels to assist in survey operations to be conducted by chartered vessel Geowave Commander respectively. When payments due to Yusuf Gani and Sunil Naik were defaulted by Reflect Geophysical, they approached the Bombay High Court to enforce their claim against Reflect Geophysical by arresting the vessel Geowave Commander. Even though the court gave an ex parte decree to arrest the vessel, later it refused to order arrest, holding that Reflect Geophysical was not the owner of the vessel Geowave Commander, and hence the claims against Reflect Geophysical could not be enforced through the arrest of the chartered vessel.

On appeal by the two aggrieved parties, the Supreme Court bench consisting of Justice J. Chelameswar and Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, considered three important principles while adjudicating the matter. One being the precedent set by the SC itself in the landmark decision of MV Elisabeth &Ors. v. Harwan Investment & Trading Pvt. Ltd. “The foundation of an action in rem against a ship arises from a maritime lien or claim imposing a personal liability upon the owner of the vessel.” Here the claim was only against the charterer of the vessel and not against the de jure owner of the vessel. Thus the chartered ship cannot be arrested for a claim against its charterer. The court observed that “the crucial test would be of ownership, which in the present case clearly does not vest with Reflect Geophysical and the de facto ownership under their bareboat charter cannot be equated to a de jure owner, which is necessary for an action in personam”.

The second point that crossed the Hon’ble Court was Article 3(3) of the International Convention on Arrest of Ships, 1999, which forbids the arrest of ships not owned by the person liable for the claim, except under a judgment based on a contrary law of the respective state. The Indian Admiralty law is silent on that matter, hence no judgment for arrest of such a ship could not take place. The SC itself has stated in the Elizabeth case (supra) that in the absence of any specific statutory provisions, maritime laws of the world can be adopted and adapted by Indian courts. Therefore, though India is not a signatory to the above convention the principles of the same can be utilized appropriately.

Finally, despite the fact that the court considered the plea of “beneficial ownership”, it didn’t really agree to it while adjudication. In Medway Drydock & Engineering Co. Ltd. v. M.V. Andrea Ursula, it was observed that “a ship would be beneficially owned by the person who, whether or not he was the legal or equitable owner or not, lawfully had full possession and control of her, and, by virtue of such possession and control, had all the benefit and use of her which a legal or equitable owner would ordinarily have”. But the fact that the above judgment was dissented by the Queen’s Bench itself in l Congreso Del Partido was duly noticed by the court. From the latter case, the court concluded that “mere possession of the ship, however, complete and whatever be the extent of the control was not found good enough to confer the status of ownership. The “beneficial use” of a chartered ship would not ipso facto convert the status of a charterer into a “beneficial owner.”

Hence, the Apex Court of India laid down a strong precedent that there cannot be an arrest or detention of a vessel in possession of a non-owner, but owned by a complete third party, as a security for a maritime claim against the former. The fact that the most significant admiralty case of Elisabeth v. Harwan Investment & Trading was cited and International Convention on Arrest of Ships was referred, where India not being a signatory, are all fascinating points to be noted. It is also interesting to look into, how the plea of “beneficial ownership” wasn’t really given importance for adjudication.

A Unique Presentation

If you think that presentation is all about how others see you, then perhaps it’s time you reassessed your opinion. You may well ask, “Why” because surely the importance of how others receive your presentation is paramount? Well this was undoubtedly the case before the advent of the internet. In simple terms, if you presented someone with a fancy and beautiful box of chocolates, they were more impressed than if you gave them exactly the same chocolates in a brown paper bag. Case proved – presentation matters!

So, what has the internet done to change this? Basically, it has stopped many of us thinking about the actual presentation and made us more focused on ourselves. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Snapchat etc., constantly bombard everyone with information about others. In many cases this creates jealousy within us. Why can’t we have the lifestyles of David Beckham, Deepika Padukone, Emma Watson or Shahid Kapoor etc.? Consequently, instead of naturally thinking about the effect our presentation has on the recipients, the focus has shifted. There is now a tendency to place more importance on our own importance. The internet has been educating us, through our on-going interactions with social media, that we are all equally unique and correspondingly important. Otherwise, how do you explain the need to gain more followers on Twitter or more likes on Facebook than anyone else?

It used to be accepted that people might normally have a unique talent in one particular skill. Consider the university professor who was brilliant at maths but known to be quirky and eccentric in most other things. However, many now believe that being unique, in one area, allows them to claim some right to have a valued opinion in others. This has led to celebrities, who are only known for their singing or acting abilities, telling us how we should vote politically or what toothpaste we should use!

It is true that the meanings of words change over time but let’s look at ‘unique’. Its original meaning was: –
‘Being only one of a particular type or having no equal’.Obviously such a definition completely excludes the possibility of there being more than one. Applying this logic how can we all be unique?

This idea of uniqueness and individuality, with its implied sense of self-importance, has worryingly started to result in the breakdown of team spirit. You only have to look at football and the way a main celebrity player attracts all the credit, as well as the money! Invariably their ‘uniqueness’ causes friction, within the team, who have to live under the celebrities shadow. In our workplaces, if we all believe we are unique then it restricts our ability to receive or give advice and perhaps come up with ideas, because others are afraid to compromise our uniqueness. This philosophy makes us more resistant to being told we might have got something wrong or that there is a better way of doing things.

The current global state of politics highlights this, especially in America and the United Kingdom. A topically trending ‘meme,’ (the name for an image, video or piece of text, typically humorous that is spread rapidly via social media) shows ‘NPC’ (non-player characters) protesting how they are all unique. The absurdity of computer-generated random characters having some sort of influential uniqueness is laughable. But consider this:- ‘Every snowflake is unique but it has totally no individual effect in a snowstorm’.

So where does this leave us? To adapt a famous quote:-‘No person is an island, entire of themselves, because everyone is a piece of the continent.’

In order to better ourselves, and also help others, we mustn’t allow the internet to suck us into being isolated from the needs of others. Not everyone is interested in knowing about our recent stay in hospital, even though we got hundreds of likes on Facebook. The recent pictures posted of a Seychelles holiday might have got hundreds of likes, however the chances are some were really envious and, even though they posted ‘like’ actually disliked them! Consequently, it would have been better not to post them because doing so caused envy. As the well-known logic goes, this negativity might well come back and bite you when you least expect it.

Good interactive presentation still relies on the premise that the importance of the recipient comes first and foremost. We must shrug off our feeling of self-importance and uniqueness. Resetting the threshold, raising the bar when self-importance kicks in, will give us a better perspective about our family, friends and colleagues. Interestingly the Victorian-era theatrical English partnership of Gilbert and Sullivan summed up the dilemma very well, in these lyrics from their 1889 comic opera, ‘The Gondoliers’. It’s probably well worth keeping them at the forefront of our minds.

‘When everyone is somebody, then no one’s anybody’.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

‘Righteousness’ was a word which former India President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam used in most of his speeches. Its frequent use made me ponder on the meaning which may be defined as, ‘a quality of being morally correct and justifiable’. It helped me recognise that in our lives, both personal and professional, there are situations where we have to take decisions that may not be so comfortable for everyone. I have personally found myself, many times, in such a dilemma. The way forward is to remember the concept of ‘righteousness’. When we are able to justify our thoughts and decisions as being right, we should not hesitate in taking the initiative. I have never delayed acting decisively about an issue which is correct and good for the larger group.
My observations indicate that a large majority are reluctant to be as quickly and effectively resolute, especially when bold decisions are needed.
Their biggest problem seems to be that they don’t have the courage to say, “No”. I have always found that if one strongly disapproves of something then there is little point in trying to appease others by saying, “Yes”. To do so will not only destroy yourself mentally but also weaken your self-esteem. Why do others find it so troublesome to say, “No”?
It is because there is a fear of rejection, not being liked by others or anxious at having to perhaps stand-alone upholding what you believe?
Whatever feeds such reluctance can be assuaged by remembering Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s concept and start acting with ‘righteousness’. The more you do so the more you will be prepared and confident to take meaningful decisions, for the good of others and your own well-being.
This latter sentiment is so appropriate when we realise the tragedy that has unfolded in my home state of Kerala. The relentless force of nature’s floods has brought disaster and heartbreak. “For the good of others and your own well-being”, provides a mantra spurring all to wholeheartedly join in supporting efforts to help the rescue services and provide succour for those in need.
I pledge to do all I am able to do to assist others in their time of great need. I express my sincere prayers on behalf of CSS Group and myself; knowing that ‘Righteousness’ being shared by all, amongst us all, will see Kerala recover from this terrible tragedy.

LEADING FROM THE FRONT LINE

The Lighthouse editorial team sat down with Sreenath V. – Vice President Operations & Projects – to know more about his dedication to the field of logistics and freight forwarding, what his motivation is and more.
By: Minaal Pervaiz


If you were to describe yourself in under two minutes, how would you sum it all up?
Team player, flexible and open to constructive ideas.

How did you first get involved in the Shipping, Liner and Logistics industry?
Getting into the logistics industry was purely an accidental occurrence. I started off my career by being part of the customs clearing division and as opportunities presented themselves, I kept learning various aspects of the logistics industry.

Tell us how you got to join the CSS Group. Why did you want this job?
CSS was – by 2002 – a very fast-growing organization. I met Mr. Kala [CEO and Founder, CSS Group] and Mr. Anil Kumar [Finance Director, CSS Group] through a mutual friend. We sat down for a casual cup of coffee and we discussed the role they had in mind. Now, 16 years later, I sit here as the Vice President of Operations & Projects!

What do you think it takes for an employee to get ahead in the CSS Group?
There is no alternative to hard work and when it is combined with honesty and passion, growth is imminent. There are a lot of opportunities still around for youngsters in the CSS Group. If they understand that growing laterally too is an achievement, then for sure they will [get ahead].

Could you tell us about the portfolio you are currently managing?
Presently I work along with the operations team of Consolidated Shipping Services, be it the CFS or the SCM requirements, take care of the Transport department activities, and commercially involved with the projects division under Mr. Raj George.

How would you handle failure?
Failure can only be understood as being a corrective step towards success. Why not embrace it, learn and look forward to new doors?

What do you enjoy most about working here?
Being a part of a big family, where everyone cares for one another, works as a team to find solutions and then enjoy the fruits of their labor – together.

What is your personal philosophy on working with logistics and freight forwarding at this point?
I have moved ahead in my career simply due to the passion I developed for the job I do. I am still learning the nuances of this industry. The logistics industry is an ocean and you never get tired of learning new things on a daily basis.

What do you think the current state of affairs are in the industry and possible (positive/negative) predictions using your knowledge at this point?
The market is on a course of stabilization with various aspects affecting our industry. As CSS, we have always ridden the wave quite fine over the years and are confident that we will ride this one too very smoothly. Of course I am not predicting anything but – as a team and putting in a consolidated effort – we are earmarked to do well.

What motivates you?
It is the team, the people that one works with that motivates one automatically. I appreciate every day that I can walk into my office and interact with such willful and intelligent colleagues. That is my motivation – I keep going because I want to, not need to.

MOVING TRUCKS TO MALE

Air Craft rescue firefighting trucks, moved by CSS Projects team
An interesting project movement was successfully concluded by CSS Projects team lead by Sony Mathews recently. The details of the movement were explained to Lighthouse by Sony himself. Air Craft Rescue Firefighting trucks were the cargo. There were Two trucks to be moved from its origin at Jebel Ali to the destination at Male. The experienced CSS projects team conducted the pre-move survey of the route and the destination prior to the commencement of the move. Each point of the entire project was carefully assessed to ensure a fool proof and smooth journey of the cargo.

The trucks which were Out of Gauge, were loaded on to Flat Rack containers using special lifting gears. “We enjoyed each point of the project execution. The movement was challenging at the same time exciting. Two cranes were engaged for tandem lift. Special wooden supports were provided for the accurate positioning of the trucks onto the flat racks. The trucks were lashed on to the flat racks and secured with suitable chains & buckles”, mentioned the team leader.

All documentation and sanction pre-requisites were properly met so as to ensure a hassle-free cargo movement. “Project movements always demand experience and skilful handling. Executing the movement on-time with cent percent success is what we look into, at CSS. Our past experience and successful results attract clients to us when such demands pitch in”, commented Raj George, Senior Vice President, Projects Oil & Energy, CSS Group, after the successful project completion.

CARGO BY AIR

Project Cargo Movement from Dubai to Lagos

CSS Projects team has released details of an Air Project Cargo movement done to Lagos recently, to Lighthouse. The said movement was successfully handled and completed by the Projects team at CSS Dubai. 68 tons of Pipes, flanges, stud bolts and nuts were air freighted from Dubai to the African destination.

“Extensive examination of the scope and aim of the project movement needs to be analyzed before commencing such projects. Our experience in the field of project forwarding helped us a lot in this regard” said Sajith Vijayan, Manager, Projects Oil & Energy Division, CSS Dubai.

As per Sajith, the main challenge in this particular project was managing the movement within a short time frame. The entire cargo was moved in four different lots and different aircrafts, based on cargo movable on passenger flights and cargo flights and with minimum transhipments. The scope of the project included collection of the cargo, completion of airworthy packaging and per the airline guidelines and doing the airfreight.

“Timely follow up with the airline companies and updating the client about the status of the cargo in regular intervals becomes indispensable to keep the movement robust. The assistance from the air freight department at CSS Dubai needs a special mention here. They have done a commendable job in successfully executing this project”, mentioned Sreenath V., Vice President, Projects Oil & Energy Division, CSS Group.

The successful completion of this air project cargo movement has once again proved the trustworthiness of the Projects division of CSS Group, who have already in its credit a long list of renowned Project cargo movements in the Middle East over the last two decades.