Team Herald
MARGAO: The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) in a strong message to the State government demanded to make Seafarers Welfare Pension Scheme permanent.
At an annual general body meeting held at Ravindra Bhavan, here, on Sunday, the GSAI deliberated on the issue pertaining to the Seafarers Welfare Pension Scheme by the NRI Department and expressed frustration for taking seafarers for granted.
The GSAI also resolved to send a strong message to the Government of Goa to make the scheme permanent.
According to GSAI President Frank Viegas, “As per a written query received by a member it was deliberately discussed on the Seafarers Welfare Pension Scheme by the NRI Department, Government of Goa, which the seafarers and widows used to receive Rs 2,500 and Rs 500 (differential amount) per month. The members echoed their feelings how the government is taking them for granted over the scheme, of which the order expired on November 20.”
The members resolved that the government make the scheme permanent and to consider new applicants, who are eligible, which the seafarers and their families will react to for their negligence and for taking the seafarers community for granted.
The meeting also deliberated on the court case in the High Court of Bombay at Goa, which the GSAI knocked the doors of the court, to get justice for seafarers who were receiving Rs 200 per month from Seafarers Welfare Fund Society, which was suddenly brought to the notice of seafarers to settle with Rs 12,500 as a final settlement. The seafarers were not happy and in support and solidarity, the GSAI filed writ petition challenging the Union Ministry of Shipping’s Secretary, Government of India and two others as respondents that the seafarers deserve better for their hard work, sacrifice and for their contribution towards welfare initiative.
For the year 2021 around 2,836 GSAI members and 4,183 non-members received guidance and assistance. It was also emphasised to members to encourage seafarers to get involved and be part of the association.
