On March 4th, 2024, a crucial online interaction took place involving key stakeholders in the maritime sector. Directorate General of Shipping Shyam Jagannathan, Secretary of the Director General of Shipping, Daniel Joseph Deputy Director General of Shipping, and Frank Viegas, President of the Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI), convened to discuss pressing issues affecting seafarers.
During the interaction, GSAI highlighted several concerns, including the provision of 2GB of free internet access per month on board the ship, flight tickets up to the hometown upon signing off, double overtime pay for working on holidays and Sundays, transparent medical plans/benefits for seafarers, appointment of Seafarer Relation Officers (SRO) by every RPSL company, and tax exemptions for Indian seafarers. These issues were deemed vital for the welfare and rights of seafarers, both at sea and on land.
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In response, the DG of Shipping expressed deep concern over the raised issues and assured GSAI that their suggestions would undergo careful review. The director encouraged GSAI to provide case-specific inputs and data to facilitate further examination and resolution of the matters raised. It was emphasized that the welfare and well-being of seafarers remain a top priority, and concerted efforts will be made to address these concerns for the betterment of the seafaring community.
Looking ahead, GSAI pledged to continue following up on these issues and collaborate closely with the DG Shipping to ensure effective resolution. This collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to improving conditions and policies for seafarers in India.
The online interaction proved to be productive in shedding light on the challenges faced by seafarers and initiating discussions on how to enhance their working conditions and benefits. The commitment demonstrated by both GSAI and the Director General of Shipping signifies a promising step towards addressing these issues and safeguarding the well-being of seafarers.
