Dr Radhika Vakharia –
On January 22, the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) and Sailors’ Society UK signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening welfare services for the maritime sector in India. This MOU marks a significant step forward in supporting the health, well-being, and safety of seafarers, reflecting a long-term commitment to improving their lives both at sea and on shore.
Mr Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, Government of India, expressed that the partnership with Sailors’ Society—an esteemed international charity established in 1818 with over 200 years of expertise in seafarer welfare —will bring invaluable resources and support to the maritime community in India. Capt (Dr) Daniel Joseph, Deputy Director of Shipping (Crew), Government of India, also reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to advancing the welfare of seafarers through this collaboration with Sailors’ Society.
Representatives from Sailors’ Society were present at the signing ceremony. Capt Manoj Joy (Community Development Manager) and Dr Deepti Mankad (Client and Project Manager) played key roles in facilitating the process. Sailors’ Society has built a strong reputation for offering round-the-clock support to seafarers, providing a comprehensive range of services designed to promote their physical and emotional well-being.
As part of this collaboration, the MOU outlines several initiatives to improve welfare services at Indian ports and for Indian seafarers worldwide. These include:
- Helpline Services: Round-the-clock assistance to seafarers facing challenges at sea or in port.
- Crisis Response: Immediate support in cases of emergencies or unforeseen difficulties.
- E-Learning: Access to educational and training resources to support career development and safety.
- Peer-to-Peer Support: A network for seafarers to connect, share experiences, and provide mutual assistance.
- Cadet and Rating Conferences: Platforms for the professional development of young maritime talent and those pursuing careers in the industry.
The MOU aligns with the Directorate’s broader initiative to enhance seafarers’ welfare and safety standards and is poised to positively impact the Indian maritime industry. By leveraging Sailors’ Society’s global expertise, the collaboration will ensure more robust welfare systems, particularly in mental health support, crisis management, and education for maritime personnel.
Both parties expressed optimism that this partnership will transform seafarers’ lives, offering them the support and resources they deserve while enhancing the overall safety standards of the maritime sector in India. The MOU is a clear demonstration of the ongoing commitment to seafarers’ health, well-being, and safety, reinforcing the importance of collaborative international efforts to uplift the maritime community.
Marex Media