MARGAO: In a significant development for Goa's maritime community, the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has announced plans to establish an examination center for the Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU-CET) in Goa for the academic year 2025-26. This decision comes in response to a question raised by South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes in the Lok Sabha, which addresses a long-standing grievance of the Goan seafarer community.
For years, aspiring seafarers from Goa have been compelled to travel outside their State, such as the Mumbai centre, to take these crucial examinations. This requirement has been a source of considerable inconvenience and additional expense for Goan candidates, many of whom come from modest backgrounds. The absence of a local examination centre has been a persistent issue, especially considering Goa's strong maritime heritage and the large number of Goans employed in the seafaring sector.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from various quarters. Savio Da Silva, the South Goa Congress Chief, expressed his gratitude to MP Captain Viriato Fernandes for taking up this critical issue. Da Silva highlighted that this was a matter he had previously discussed with the MP, recognising its importance to the local community.
Seafarers pointed out that the maritime industry has long been a cornerstone of Goa's economy and cultural identity. With a large portion of the Goan workforce finding employment on ships and in various maritime roles, the lack of a local IMU-CET centre has been seen as a barrier to entry for many aspiring seafarers from the State. This new development is expected to alleviate these concerns and potentially increase the number of Goan youth entering the maritime profession.
Viriato seeks freedom for Indian seafarers held in foreign jails
MARGAO: South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes raised concerns in the Lok Sabha about Indian seafarers held captive in foreign jails. He urged swift action for their release and emphasised the need to expedite processes to assist these imprisoned nationals. Fernandes called for immediate measures to secure their freedom and provide relief.
Outside parliament, the MP also thanked the Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav in person for approving special trains. These trains will facilitate pilgrim travel between Vasco-da-Gama and Vailankanni from August 27 to September 8, this year. The arrangement for the devotees was raised by Fernandes to the Union Railway Minister recently.