Pratik Bijlani –
On the 25th June in Mumbai, the Bharat Ratnam became a rare meeting point for a profession that usually operates far beyond public view, yet quietly sustains the modern world. The Day of the Seafarer 2026, organised by the National Maritime Day Celebrations (Central) Committee in association with the Directorate General of Shipping under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, unfolded under a theme that captured both pride and pressure— “Carrying World Trade. Carrying the Risks.”
The programme opened with a Guard of Honour by cadets of MTI SCI, followed by a two-minute silence in remembrance of seafarers lost during the recent Gulf crisis. The solemnity of the moment set the tone for a day that balanced celebration with reflection, acknowledging that global trade is built on lives often lived in uncertainty.
Throughout the morning, speakers returned to a shared truth: more than 90 percent of world trade moves by sea, but the human cost of keeping that system alive is rising sharply amid geopolitical tensions, piracy threats, cyber risks, and long periods of isolation. Officials from the Directorate General of Shipping and stakeholders across the industry, including the International Maritime Organization, emphasised the need for stronger welfare and protection frameworks to match the growing complexity of maritime operations.
In his address, Capt. Som Raj, Director (P&A), Shipping Corporation of India and Chairman of the NMDC Organizing Committee, captured the essence of the profession with a powerful reflection: “Seafarers carry far more than cargo—they carry economies, sustain nations, and uphold global trade amid conflict and uncertainty. Their courage, sacrifice, and professionalism deserve our deepest respect and our unwavering commitment to their safety and welfare.”
Mr. Sushil Mansing Khopde, IPS, Additional Director General of Shipping, reinforced this perspective while outlining ongoing welfare initiatives, digital safety systems, and mental health programmes under the maritime administration and the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society. He also pointed to the ₹7.50 crore modernization of the Royal Bombay Seamen’s Society, aimed at strengthening one of Mumbai’s oldest seafarer welfare institutions. He reminded the gathering, “Seafarers keep global supply chains alive, often facing immense risks far from home. Their safety, welfare, career growth and dignity must remain our collective responsibility, because behind every ship and every cargo stands a human being.”
If the speeches framed the policy landscape, the panel discussion brought the sea into sharp human focus. Moderated by Capt. M.P. Bhasin, the panel centred on the realities of operational risk at sea and the importance of preparedness, teamwork, and situational awareness. He emphasized that risk is inherent in maritime life and must be managed collectively through discipline and training. Ms. Romeeta Bundela highlighted persistent gender bias against women seafarers and stressed the need for initiatives like “Sagar Mein Samman,” along with stronger support systems for retention, motherhood, and workplace safety. Capt. Mukesh Kalia shared insights from navigating high-risk waters near Oman and Fujairah, underscoring strict onboard procedures, blackout protocols, and coordinated teamwork. Mr. Mallikarjun S. Mandolikar spoke on offshore risks such as pressure hazards, H2S exposure, and emergency preparedness, warning against complacency in routine operations. Capt. Rajesh Sawant described threats in the Strait of Hormuz, including GPS jamming and drones, calling for stronger authority and welfare support. Capt. Amol Patankar highlighted reliance on traditional navigation during GPS spoofing. Mr. Sanjay Suryavanshi discussed wartime stress and psychological strain on crews in the Persian Gulf.
As the discussions concluded, the narrative had come full circle—from policy to practice, from systems to survival. The message was clear: seafarers are not just participants in global trade; they are its foundation, often carrying its heaviest risks silently.
The day closed with cadet performances and cultural presentations, but the reflections lingered beyond the hall. In every account shared, the same truth surfaced in different forms—global commerce moves forward because seafarers continue to move with it, through calm waters and crises alike, carrying both the world’s trade and its uncertainties.
Marex Media