MARGAO: In a move to recognise the lifelong dedication of senior seafarers to the maritime industry, the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) has introduced a special financial assistance programme for super senior seafarers aged 75 years and above.
Under the scheme, eligible Indian seafarers will receive a one-time financial aid of Rs 25,000. The programme aims to honor the hard work of these individuals throughout their careers and provide support during their retirement years.
The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) has pledged its support for the initiative. Frank Viegas, President of GSAI, emphasised the association’s commitment to assisting seafarers and their widows in availing the benefits of the scheme. He assured that GSAI would facilitate easy access to the entitlements for retired seafarers and their spouses.
The eligibility criteria for the scheme require seafarers to hold an Indian Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) and be aged 75 or above on January 26, 2024. Additionally, they must have completed a cumulative period of at least 6 months of sea service between the ages of 55 and 60. The scheme also extends to spouses of deceased seafarers under specific conditions.
Applications for the scheme should be submitted to the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society, Mumbai until January 25, 2025.
