Pratik Bijlani –
On May 11th, a collaborative effort between The Company of Master Mariners India (CMMI), The Institute of Marine Engineers (IME) Mumbai Branch, and The Institution of Naval Architects brought together maritime professionals for the “Women in Maritime – Trials & Tribulations” event. Held at Hotel Kohinoor, Andheri East, Mumbai, the event aimed to address the obstacles faced by women in the maritime industry and explore pathways to overcome them.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Guest Mr Shyam Jagannathan IAS, Director General of Shipping, acknowledged the challenges faced by female seafarers, emphasizing, “Being onboard a vessel is not easy; it has its own challenges, more so for lady seafarers.” Mr. Jagannathan lauded initiatives like “Sagar Mey Samman,” highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality in the maritime sector.
Keynote Speaker Mrs HK Joshi, Former CMD, The Shipping Corporation of India Limited, underscored the importance of addressing women’s issues in maritime, expressing hope for a future where such seminars won’t be necessary. She commended the Director General of Shipping for promoting inclusivity and diversity, advocating for gender balance to alleviate challenges faced by women.
The event featured presentations by female professionals from diverse maritime backgrounds, offering insights into their roles and the industry’s challenges. Ms. Sapna Dipu, Naval Architect at AGM MDL, shed light on women’s pivotal role in shipbuilding, emphasizing the need for leadership opportunities and equal responsibilities. Surveyor IRS, Janane Vishwanathan, stressed the importance of gender balance for economic growth and technological advancement in the maritime sector.
Master Pilot Reshma Nilofer shared her experiences navigating challenges as a female pilot, advocating for improved facilities, safety measures, and equal representation. Maritime Lawyer Sandhya Pillai outlined her role in facilitating insurance claims, urging ship companies to vet policies carefully.
A panel discussion allowed prominent women in the industry to address questions and share insights into their maritime experiences. Madame Joshi encapsulated the spirit of the event, stating, “I look forward to the maritime industry in which women not only are growing and flourishing, but triumphing with a mind without fear and the head held high.”
The event served as a platform to recognize the contributions of women in maritime, foster dialogue on gender equality, and inspire future generations of female seafarers. Through collaborative efforts and advocacy, the maritime industry strives to create a diverse and inclusive environment that empowers women to thrive.
In conclusion, “Women in Maritime – Trials & Tribulations” marked a significant step towards breaking barriers and championing gender equality in the maritime sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the collective efforts of stakeholders aim to ensure equal opportunities and representation for all maritime professionals.
Marex Media