Pratik Bijlani –
On April 11th, The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) convened its monthly lecture meeting at the Mumbai Maritime Training Institute (MMTI), Mumbai. The gathering served as a platform for maritime experts to discuss key outcomes from the 10th session of the Sub-Committee on Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW), along with a review of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
The meeting was attended by industry stalwarts, such as Capt Yashoverman Sharma, Capt DK Mehta, Capt OP Yadav, Capt KV Pradhan, Capt Bhalla, Capt VK Bhandarkar, Capt Ashok Gogia, and Capt Subhedar to name a few.
The meeting was led by panellists Capt CL Dubey, Fellow and Warden, CMMI, and Principal and Owner, MMTI; Capt Arvind Natrajan, Member, CMMI, AFNI, MMCM (India), and Master Marine-Senior Master Adviser; and Mr Sunil Kumar, Head – Training and Assessment, GESCO. Captain Mahesh Yadav (Director of Education and Training at Fosma Maritime Institute & Research Organisation) moderated the meeting.
The discussion centered on the two-step methodology proposed for the STCW Convention review, focusing on identifying gaps and subsequent revisions. Delegates, including representatives from the Indian administration, deliberated on proposals for revising outdated training requirements, incorporating provisions for emerging technologies, and enhancing mental health and gender sensitization training.
Capt Natrajan underscored the necessity for updating the STCW articles, which have remained unchanged since its inception. He said, “The articles of the STCW convention were drafted in 1978 and they have never been reviewed. There have been many advances since then, and I think that some of the articles need to be reviewed and perhaps be revised.” He emphasized the need to address emerging challenges such as autonomous ships and the competency requirements for their operators.
Mr Kumar shed light on the imperative of training related to alternative fuels, a significant topic discussed at the HTW 10th session. With a surge in orders for ships with alternative fuel propulsion systems, the need for specialized training in handling and transporting these fuels becomes paramount. Mr Kumar highlighted the risks associated with fuels such as LNG, Hydrogen, and Ammonia, stressing the importance of emergency response preparedness and compatibility studies with existing ships.
The meeting also delved into the introduction of STCW’s Online Database, GISIS, aimed at enhancing information sharing and combating fraudulent practices in the shipping industry. Capt Dubey elucidated on the functionalities of GISIS, emphasizing its role in consolidating information on certificate endorsements and improving communication between maritime administrations.
Furthermore, the Sub-Committee on HTW validated model courses on operational use of integrated bridge systems and liquefied petroleum gas tanker cargo handling. Draft terms of reference for revising model courses on chemical and oil tanker cargo handling were also approved, reflecting the commitment to align training programs with evolving industry requirements.
The CMMI monthly lecture meeting serves as a forum for robust discussions and collaborative efforts towards enhancing seafarer training, certification, and safety in line with global standards. As the maritime industry embraces technological advancements and navigates new challenges, such initiatives play a pivotal role in ensuring the competence and well-being of seafarers worldwide.
Marex Media