The Indian Seafarers Welfare Organization (ISWOT) marked the Day of the Seafarer 2026, 25th June with a landmark event at the Ambica Empire Hotel, announcing a series of ambitious welfare programmes aimed at strengthening healthcare and empowering women in the maritime community.
Presided over by Dr. A. Babu Mailan, Chairman of ISWOT, the celebration drew ministers, Members of Parliament, senior maritime officials, industry leaders, social activists, and hundreds of seafarers with their families.
Among the most significant resolutions was the establishment of Air Ambulance and Sea Ambulance services, designed to provide timely emergency medical assistance to seafarers and coastal communities during critical situations.
ISWOT also announced comprehensive Women’s Skill Development Programmes, including vocational training, entrepreneurship support, self‑employment guidance, and small business facilitation. These initiatives aim to enhance economic independence and improve the quality of life for women in maritime families.
The organization emphasized that these programmes will be implemented in partnership with government departments, corporates, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and social service organizations, ensuring broad‑based support and sustainability.
The event was graced by dignitaries including Hon’ble Thiru Vijay Vasanth, MP (Kanyakumari); Rev. Fr. C. Joe Arun, S.J., Director of LIBA; Dr. S. Xavier Britto, Chairman of K‑Indev Logistics; and Miss Devi James Melchior, Senior VP – Logistics, Indev Infra Pvt. Ltd.
Guests of Honour included Capt. Dr. Daniel J. Joseph, Deputy Director General of Shipping, Shri G. M. Krishnamoorthy, General Secretary, Madras Port Trust Employees’ Union, and several eminent personalities from academia, commerce, and social service.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. S. Jesilin, Vice Chairman of ISWOT, followed by a networking session. The announcements were widely lauded as transformative steps toward improving welfare for seafarers, women, and coastal communities.
Marex Media