Pratik Bijlani –
On January 17, the National Union Seafarers of India (NUSI) and the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), Government of India, signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce the standardized wellness curriculum, Sagar Mein Yog at the DGS in Mumbai. The benefits of incorporating yoga into daily life include building resilience, reducing anxiety, improving overall quality of life, managing stress, improving physical fitness, enhancing mental well-being.
The event was graced by Mr Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, and Mr Milind Kandalgaonkar, General Secretary of NUSI, who formalized the agreement. Key dignitaries included Mr. Louis Gomes, Vice President of NUSI; Mr Sunil V Nair, Assistant General Secretary of NUSI; Mr Suresh Solanki, Organizing Secretary of NUSI; Mr Sunder Pillai, PR Planning and Strategic Head of NUSI; Mr Deependra Singh Bisen, Dy Director General of Shipping, DG Shipping; Ms Arushi Sethi Shah, NUSI Technology partner; and Capt (Dr) Daniel Joseph, Deputy Director General of Shipping (Crew), who skillfully hosted the event.
In his address, Mr Kandalgaonkar stated, “Today’s seafarers face unprecedented pressures during extended voyages. This programme addresses a critical need in our industry by providing comprehensive support for both mental and physical wellbeing.” He added that NUSI has embarked upon initiatives to deal with mental health and wellbeing issues of seafarers including the pioneering “NUSI Sahara” which was started in 2017. The initiative is for all ranks of Indian seafarers’ pre-sea / post-sea and on board the ships and their families’ pan-India.
Mr Kandalgaonkar also mentioned that the Directorate General of Shipping will provide all necessary assistance, guidance, logistics etc including collaboration with experts to facilitate the successful implementation of the flagship program “Sagar Mein Yog- Complete Wellness at Sea”.
Mr Jagannathan, in his speech, emphasized the government’s dedication to Indian seafarers’ well-being. “Our commitment is clear: every Indian seafarer, wherever they may be, is not just a representative of our country but a part of our family, and their safety and well-being remain our top priority,” he affirmed. He praised the integration of “Sagar Mein Yog,” which includes ten core components aimed at unifying body, mind, and spirit. Acknowledging the challenges of seafaring life, he stressed the importance of regular impact assessments and mental health training to ensure tangible benefits for seafarers.
Mr Bisen reflected on yoga’s heritage and its global recognition, stating, “Sagar Mein Yog is a dream project of the Director General of Shipping, aimed at instilling resilience in seafarers from the beginning of their careers.” He reaffirmed his support for this initiative, which aligns with International Yoga Day, a global movement championed by India.
Ms. Shah highlighted the transformative potential of “Sagar Mein Yog,” stating, “Sagar mein yog will be a standardized wellness curriculum with a promise to uplift and empower India’s marine workforce. The tides of change are here; it’s time to sail forward with Sagar Mein Yog.”
The event concluded with the signing of the MoU, symbolizing a shared vision of supporting Indian seafarers’ well-being and reinforcing the maritime industry’s commitment to their holistic development. This groundbreaking initiative is set to navigate Indian seafarers toward a healthier, more balanced future.
Marex Media