On May 11th, a collaborative effort between The Company of Master Mariners India (CMMI), The Institute of Marine Engineers (IME) Mumbai Branch, and The Institution of Naval Architects brought together maritime professionals for the “Women in Maritime – Trials & Tribulations” event. Held at Hotel Kohinoor, Andheri East, Mumbai, the event aimed to address the obstacles faced by women in the maritime industry and explore pathways to overcome them.

In his inaugural address, the Chief Guest Mr Shyam Jagannathan IAS, Director General of Shipping, acknowledged the challenges faced by female seafarers, emphasizing, “Being onboard a vessel is not easy; it has its own challenges, more so for lady seafarers.” Mr. Jagannathan lauded initiatives like “Sagar Mey Samman,” highlighting the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality in the maritime sector.

Keynote Speaker Mrs HK Joshi, Former CMD, The Shipping Corporation of India Limited, underscored the importance of addressing women’s issues in maritime, expressing hope for a future where such seminars won’t be necessary. She commended the Director General of Shipping for promoting inclusivity and diversity, advocating for gender balance to alleviate challenges faced by women.

The event featured presentations by female professionals from diverse maritime backgrounds, offering insights into their roles and the industry’s challenges. Ms. Sapna Dipu, Naval Architect at AGM MDL, shed light on women’s pivotal role in shipbuilding, emphasizing the need for leadership opportunities and equal responsibilities. Surveyor IRS, Janane Vishwanathan, stressed the importance of gender balance for economic growth and technological advancement in the maritime sector.

Master Pilot Reshma Nilofer shared her experiences navigating challenges as a female pilot, advocating for improved facilities, safety measures, and equal representation. Maritime Lawyer Sandhya Pillai outlined her role in facilitating insurance claims, urging ship companies to vet policies carefully.

A panel discussion allowed prominent women in the industry to address questions and share insights into their maritime experiences. Madame Joshi encapsulated the spirit of the event, stating, “I look forward to the maritime industry in which women not only are growing and flourishing, but triumphing with a mind without fear and the head held high.”

The event served as a platform to recognize the contributions of women in maritime, foster dialogue on gender equality, and inspire future generations of female seafarers. Through collaborative efforts and advocacy, the maritime industry strives to create a diverse and inclusive environment that empowers women to thrive.

In conclusion, “Women in Maritime – Trials & Tribulations” marked a significant step towards breaking barriers and championing gender equality in the maritime sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the collective efforts of stakeholders aim to ensure equal opportunities and representation for all maritime professionals.

Marex Media

This agreement aims to enhance regional connectivity and facilitate trade, particularly between India, Iran and Afghanistan. The India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ), a subsidiary of IPGL, facilitated the first consignment of exports from Afghanistan to India in 2019. The operations continued through short terms contracts while negotiations on the Long Term Agreement peaked pace with the visit of Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to Chabahar in August, 2022. This 10 years long term lease agreement further strengthens the bilateral ties between the two countries while bolstering confidence & boosting trust of trading communities from the region.

Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Today is a historic day for the maritime sector of the region as India and Iran signed this Long Term Agreement on Chabahar Port heralding a new age of trade, marine cooperation as well as transshipment while boosting trilateral trade among India, Iran and Afghanistan. As India continues to invest in Chabahar Port, its efficiency and capacity will be further enhanced, solidifying India’s commitment to the region’s economic development. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India’s sustained engagement in Chabahar underscores its role as an anchor for Indian trade in the region while enhancing its role in the Global Supply Chain. India will use the port for humanitarian aid shipments reaffirming its commitment to support regional development beyond commercial interests, showcasing its commitment to fostering goodwill and stability in the region.”

Adding further, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Chabahar Port’s significance transcends its role as a mere conduit between India and Iran; it serves as a vital trade artery connecting India with Afghanistan and Central Asian Countries. This linkage has unlocked new avenues for trade and fortified supply chain resilience across the region. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India is on its way to become a major maritime player with formidable supply chain network. The establishment of regular ship calls between Chabahar Port and Indian ports has instilled stability and confidence among traders, offering them visibility and predictability in their supply chain operations.”

Reaffirming Chabahar Port investment for boosting India’s economic growth, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “As envisaged by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi ji, this project is also about encouraging Indian entrepreneurs to venture into the region from a long-term prospects. The port’s integration with a Special Free Zone augments its appeal, while India’s incentives, such as concessions on vessel-related charges and cargo charges, bolster trade flows through Chabahar, fostering economic growth and cooperation. While we are optimistic about a growing trade with favourable Balance of Trade, this is an opportunity for India’s business entities to expand their footprints in the bourgeoning Central Asian region. I must thank leadership of Iran for their cooperation and support. The invaluable guidance by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji turned this project into a viable reality with a long term outlook.”

As part of the agreement, India wil procure MHCs, RMQCs, RTGCs, Reach Stackers, Forklifts, Pneumatic Unloaders etc at Chabahar Port. The agreement paves the way for enhanced trade and investment opportunities which will potentially boost India’s economic development.

Located in the Sistan-Baluchistan province on Iran’s south western coast, the Chabahar port is an important point on Arabian Sea with easy access from India’s west coast. Kandla port in Gujarat is the closest to the Chabahar port at 550 Nautical Miles while the distance between Chabahar and Mumbai is 786 Nautical Miles. Since 2019, it has handled container traffic of more than 80,000 TEUs and Bulk and General Cargo of more than 8 million tones.

The Chabahar port project fosters trade ties and strengthens economic interdependence. The port aims to become a multiplier of economic activity in the region as well as creating job opportunities. Strategically situated, the port offers an alternative transit from Strait of Hormuz for cargo traffic between Central Asian Countries and Afghanistan. This diversification strengthens India’s strategic position in the region.

The port’s integration with a special free zone augments its appeal, while India’s incentives, such as concessions on vessel-related charges and cargo charges, bolster trade flows through Chabahar, fostering economic growth and cooperation.

Chabahar is envisaged as a crucial link in the eastern route of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), facilitating the movement of goods between India and Central Asian Countries. This collaboration between India and Iran on developing infrastructure and logistics along the 7,200 kms INSTC aims to reduce transportation costs and time, thereby promoting trade between these regions.

The continued development of Chabahar port promises a bright future for regional trade. As cargo volumes rise and infrastructure expands, Chabahar has the potential to become a vital economic hub, not just for India and Iran, but for the entire region. This project serves as a powerful example of how international collaboration can unlock economic growth and prosperity.

Marex Media

Marex Media is set to host the much-anticipated “Women in Maritime Conference & Awards 2024” on May 15th at Taj Santacruz, Mumbai, aiming to pave the way for a more inclusive future in the maritime sector. The event, which will feature engaging discussions and panel sessions, seek to address pertinent topics such as the current state of gender equality in maritime and the trajectory for women in the field over the next five years.

In anticipation of the conference, Capt Dinesh Jairam, General Manager, Fleet Personnel, Seaspan Crew Management India Private Limited, a prominent voice in the maritime industry, shared his insights on the importance of spreading awareness about opportunities for women in maritime. Capt Jairam emphasized the need for proactive involvement from shipping companies in promoting gender diversity and inclusion. He highlighted the pivotal role of social media in reaching women from diverse backgrounds and inspiring them to consider careers in maritime.

Furthermore, Capt Jairam encouraged women to recognize the vast array of opportunities available in the maritime industry, both at sea and on shore. He emphasized the dynamic nature of maritime careers, where each day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth.

With Capt Jairam’s advocacy for greater awareness and inclusion, the Women in Maritime Conference and Awards 2024 promises to be a significant step towards fostering gender equality and empowerment in the maritime sector.

Marex Media

But performing one’s call sans feelings

Ain’t easy negate devilish outpours

Beware, emotions bedevil in details

Could be family, fraternity, material

Attachments not so easy to sever

When time arises they all fade

Better choose than be deleted

Deconditioning, reprogramming

Of senses that were acquired

Of lifetime tastes, trends, whatnot

Bhava, vasana1, trends, tendencies

1vasanakshaya

Ephemeral adjuncts of self in maya

Incorrigible beliefs faiths feelings

Temporary residence of this and that

Enamoured body, mind and soul

Disinherit wealth possessions

Cryptos bitcoins satoshis

Unhoard don’t be a hodler

Pass on to needy deserving

Let go self id ego, go blank

Surrender, reboot, de-invent

Pave new paths ageing

Time tested natural decay

It’s vairagya dislike by distancing

Bereft senti, abandonment

Turn coat renunciate

Like death doth parts finally

No accolades euology

Legacy or memoirs

अतःसर्वमत्यजामि

इदम्संन्यासंअर्हिस्यामि

Let go attachments, it all will at the end, anyway

Marex Media

The Author
Capt Sury Pullat
Consultant, AUMNI Shipping &
Founder-President, AMICIE

Gender equality is necessary for sustainable development, a peaceful society, and the realisation of everyone’s potential, despite being a fundamental human right. Furthermore, research indicates that empowering women increases economic growth and productivity. Around 90% of world trade is handled by the international maritime industry. According to the BIMCO/ICS 2021 Seafarer Workforce Report, women now make up just 1.2% of the world’s seafaring workforce. “Still, there remains a long way to go before gender equality in the maritime industry is achieved,” expressed Capt (Dr) Ashutosh Apandkar, Capt Suptd/Principal, Training Ship Rahaman; and Member of Board of Advisors for Marex Media’s Women in Maritime Conference & Awards (WIMCA) 2024.

Speaking about what to expect from the WIMCA event, Capt Apandkar emphasised the need for financial support for women from tier 2 and tier 3 cities, as well as the necessity of gender-sensitive training institutes. He also expressed the hope that this conference will increase awareness of the difficulties faced by women in the sector.

“Focus on opportunities and believe your participation will positively impact the maritime industry,” is his advice to women.

We invite you all to Hotel Taj Santacruz on May 15th to honour women’s accomplishments, encourage conversation about overcoming obstacles, and advance gender equality in the marine industry. For more details:

Marex Media

Let me explain why hold preparation and cleanliness are critical:

1. If the holds are not properly prepared, cargo residues, corrosion, or paint flakes may contaminate the cargo. This can result in large cargo claims for damage or quality issues. In addition, delays may occur while cleaning the holds prior to loading or discharging.
2. Inadequate hold preparation frequently results in the need for extra cleaning. This can be costly and time-consuming, compromising the vessel’s schedule and profitability.
3. Surveyors conduct hold checks to ensure that cleaning standards are met. If the holds fail inspection, the shipowner may suffer survey charges to correct the condition.
4. Disagreements between the shipowner and the charterer may occur if the vessel is not available for hiring because of hold cleanliness problems. Legal issues and monetary losses may result from this.
5. Different cargoes have varying cleaning needs:
6. These include sensitive products such as soda ash and mineral sands. They require that the holds be hospital-clean, with no rust, loose paint flakes, or prior cargo residues.
7. This group includes cement, grains, and fertilisers. The holds must adhere to a standard of cleanliness known as grain clean.
8. Certain forms of coal, like bauxite, are less susceptible to paint contamination or minor rust. The precise standards for cleanliness must be verified, though.

As a result, adequate hold preparation guarantees cargo quality, lowers risks, and upholds effective operations. To prevent expensive repercussions, shipmasters should prioritise hygiene, keep records, and adhere to norms. Always remember that preparedness is essential for everything, including ship operations and other facets of life.

Marex Media

The Author

Miss Delphine Estibeiro

Joint CEO

Marex Media Pvt Ltd

The National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI), have elected Adv. Premanand Salgaonkar as its President at its Triennial General Body meeting held on  6 May, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. in  Mumbai.

Bro. Louis Gomes, NUSI Vice President presided and welcomed all the seafarers assembled at the meeting. Making the financial disclosure for the term 2023 it was adopted. Further, the General Body unanimously adopted some important resolutions for the benefits of seafarers.

These include: Firstly, acquiring and developing assets for union activities and welfare and skill enhancement of seafarers and their families.

Second, addressing difficulties faced by seafarers in accessing the E-Governance mechanism of the Maritime Administration.

Third, to introduce more welfare and training initiatives for seafarers and families

And fourth, working towards Seafarer’s Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Over the years, NUSI has been successful in the upward revision of the terms and service conditions of seafarers working on Indian and foreign flags ships in the foreign going, home trade, offshore, and tugs sector, including cruise ships. NUSI welfare initiatives, which are on par for serving, retired, medically unfit, and deceased, have benefitted not just the members but also their families.

NUSI also launches many welfare projects periodically. All this is possible because of the strong support, guidance and efforts of the NUSI Executive Committee, NUSI Staff, NUSI Branch Representatives, NUSI Women Committee, NUSI Youth Committee and most importantly, the trust of seafarers and their families.

Marex Media

Not achieved with a drink in hand

Madhu द्राक्षरसः wine may be ok

Idea self-realise who why where to

Soul in rebirths karma till salvation

Beliefs faith religions sad offshoots

Fear respect love doubt nature resources

Brahman consciousness not causal causative

Gods can’t nano micro manage beings universes

Impossible abolish religions, bring all together

Virtual virus infection sans medicines cure

Prayers alms donations social work soothing

Ain’t negate bad karma accounts till suffered

Good karma to start with: thoughts, words, deeds

Living harmoniously with nature’s creatures

Lead follow or move, not upset sabotage

Destroy nature resources beings future

God if indeed there is any just one no

Devil balance: plus minus diabolical

Abrahamic trio strange triabolical

Industan’s pantheism much panbolical

Abrahamic wars Armageddon apocalypse?

Sects, off shoots, divisions many never ending

Politics, money, power sad bad congregation

Coexist tolerance serve needy real call focus

Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, Sikhs all in transit

Advaita consciousness end meeting point

But Spiritualists at odds in maya delusion

Failing accept ignorance nullity infinity!

Historically, the seas have been a theater of power projection and coercion, with maritime powers using their naval might to control vital sea routes and extract concessions from weaker states. From the age of imperialism to the era of globalization, attacks on shipping vessels have been employed as a means of asserting dominance, disrupting rival economies, and coercing adversaries into compliance with political demands.

One of the most notorious examples of maritime blackmail occurred during the age of sail, when European colonial powers deployed privateers to prey upon enemy shipping and disrupt trade routes. These state-sanctioned pirates operated with tacit approval from their governments, targeting merchant vessels to undermine the economic interests of rival powers and extract wealth through ransom and plunder.

In the modern era, attacks on shipping vessels have taken on new dimensions, driven by a complex interplay of geopolitical rivalries, economic interests, and ideological agendas. State-sponsored actors, terrorist organizations, and criminal syndicates frequently target commercial ships for various purposes, including economic sabotage, political coercion, and territorial disputes.

Recent years have witnessed a resurgence of maritime piracy in hotspots such as the Gulf of Aden and the Strait of Malacca, where pirate gangs hijack vessels and demand ransom payments for their release. These attacks not only pose a threat to the safety of seafarers but also disrupt vital trade routes, leading to supply chain disruptions and economic losses.

Moreover, attacks on shipping vessels have been used as a tool of geopolitical brinkmanship, with state actors seeking to assert control over strategic waterways and coerce adversaries into compliance with their political demands. The sabotage of oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, for example, has been attributed to state-sponsored actors seeking to exert pressure on their regional rivals and disrupt global energy supplies.

The implications of such attacks are far-reaching and extend beyond the realm of maritime security. Disruptions to shipping routes can have ripple effects throughout the global economy, leading to price volatility, supply chain disruptions, and economic uncertainty. Moreover, attacks on shipping vessels can exacerbate regional tensions, escalate conflicts, and undermine efforts to promote peace and stability.

Addressing the root causes of maritime insecurity requires a multifaceted approach that combines enhanced maritime domain awareness, robust law enforcement efforts, and international cooperation. By strengthening maritime security measures, prosecuting perpetrators, and addressing the underlying drivers of maritime crime, the international community can mitigate the risks posed by attacks on shipping vessels and safeguard global security in an increasingly interconnected world.

Marex Media

The Author – Advocate Aishwarye Dubey

Maritime Lawyer & Consultant

+91 91401 74606

a.dubey.maritimelaw@gmail.com

MUMBAI (INDIA)

Persona, personality, ego

Individual, team-play

Family man, social sentient

Citizen, committed, activist

To vote or not, quandary

None the good or choice

Candidates criminals crooks

Call to ban criminals or not

Push recall baddies or not

Call for plebiscite referendum

Canvas for propositions or not

Amend rewrite constitution or not

Tolerant coherent amiable or not

Ban religions gods messiahs or not

Remain steadfastly secular or not

To start or not, a new party

To join or not a new party

Bring together parties or not

Convince people to vote or not

As activist change mindsets or not

Educate people, guide, correct or not

Draw better lots to politics or not

Street corner Chai per charcha or not

To change the world or not

Change individuals or not

Change oneself instead or not

To make or not make a listicle

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