MARGAO: On the occasion of the 61st National Maritime Day, the Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) paid respects to seamen at the Indian Sailors’ Home Memorial Hall in Mumbai. Frank Viegas, President of GSAI, represented Goan Seafarers at the event, emphasising the importance of honouring those who contributed to maritime history and commerce. Viegas stressed the need to support and care for the seafaring community, highlighting their crucial role in global trade and connectivity.
The free eye check-up and blood donation camp organised by GSAI provided essential healthcare services to seafarers.
In efforts to address issues, GSAI and the Director General of Shipping are collaborating to ensure seafarers’ well-being. An online interaction involving key stakeholders discussed concerns such as providing free internet access and flight tickets for seafarers, transparent medical benefits, and the appointment of Seafarer Relation Officers (SRO). Besides double overtime pay for working on holidays and Sundays, they discussed income tax exemption for all Indian seafarers and a relaxation to 120 days instead of 183 days of working onboard.
