Dr Radhika Vakharia –
On the 5th of January, the maritime community gathered for a pivotal event focused on the mental health challenges faced by seafarers, highlighting the pressing issue of abandonment. Hosted by FSUI (Forward Seamen’s Union of India) and SEACALL, the programme featured a series of impactful speeches, discussions, and a technological innovation aimed at improving seafarers’ welfare.
The event began with a warm welcome from Emcee Mr Sanjeev Mehra, MD-Kenmark Tech Solutions, who greeted attendees, followed by a traditional Deep Prajwalan (Lamp Lighting Ritual) by the chief guests and dignitaries, symbolizing the triumph of knowledge over ignorance.
Mr Manoj Yadav, General Secretary, FSUI delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for the day’s proceedings. He offered insights on the critical role of support for seafarers’ well-being and reiterating the importance of fostering a healthier environment for maritime workers.
Capt Daniel J Joseph, Deputy Director General of Shipping (Crew), Govt of India in his presentation highlighted the initiatives taken by his department to prevent and set a deterrent for several unscrupulous RPS agencies that are responsible for abandonment of seafarers. He also extended an invitation to all to visit the DG Comm Centre space in Ballard Estate that has a host of services for improved administration and operations of daily tasks related to the maritime. He also highlighted several issues like repatriation through invoked bank guarantees, master checker and profile update of seamen in recent years.
Dr Syed Asif Altaf Chowdhury, Global Wellbeing Program Coordinator, International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) discussed the pressing mental health issues faced by seafarers, particularly around abandonment, a crisis often exacerbated by long periods away from home and isolation. He highlighted various efforts by ITF and shared updated data on several critical aspects like depression amongst seafarers. He emphasized the importance of digital tools for supporting seafarers, paving the way for the launch of the SeaCall App. This live demo showcased the app’s ability to connect seafarers with essential mental health and welfare resources while at sea, marking a significant step forward in maritime support services.
Honorary patrons Mr Shiv Gopal Mishra and Mr Mahendra Gharat Executive Board Members (ITF) stressed on greater efforts that are seen yielding good results with respect to seafarers and vouched to intensify the efforts.
Mr Narendra Rao T, General Secretary, Water Transport Workers Federation of India (WTWFI) stressed on important work done in the area of maritime and thanked the community for their selfless service.
The event was further enriched by a panel discussion, which focused on the mental health challenges and abandonment faced by seafarers, followed by a discussion where participants shared their insights and experiences. Ms Aishwarya Gupta Pilankar, MD, Nautical Marine Management Services Pvt. Ltd and Vice Chairman, IMF moderated the session.
The panellists included:
Capt Daniel J Joseph -Deputy Director General of Shipping (Crew), Govt. of India
Capt M P Bhasin, MD, MSC Crewing Services
Capt Anshul Rajvanshi, MD, Synergy Maritime Services Pvt. Ltd
Mr Steve Trowsdale, Inspectorate Co-ordinator, International Transport Workers Federation (ITF)
Dr Syed Asif Altaf Chowdhury -Global Wellbeing Program Coordinator, International Transport Workers Federation (ITF)
Ms Sonali Banerjee, Principal Surveyor, Indian Register of Shipping (IRS)
The event wrapped up with a thank you speech, recognizing the input of all speakers and attendees, and was followed by a networking dinner that facilitated further conversation, connection, and collaboration among participants.
Marex Media