CIDCO Convention Centre, Navi Mumbai, August 21, 2025 – The Seafarers’ Welfare Fund Society (SWFS), under the Directorate General of Shipping, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, hosted a landmark symposium on “Seafarers Recruitment and Welfare” with the theme “हर लहर, हर यात्रा – नाविक का कल्याण”.
The day-long event brought together senior government officials, industry leaders, maritime lawyers, P&I representatives, and international stakeholders, creating a vibrant platform to address contemporary challenges and opportunities in the recruitment and welfare of Indian seafarers.
A Visionary Inaugural Address
The symposium commenced with the lighting of the lamp and Saraswati Vandana, setting a solemn tone. Delivering the inaugural welcome address, Capt. Nitin Mukesh, Member Secretary, SWFS, extended a warm greeting to dignitaries and participants.
Capt. Mukesh reminded the gathering that seafarers remain the true backbone of India’s maritime sector:
“Behind every voyage, beyond every horizon, lies the unwavering spirit of our seafarers, whose dedication ensures the lifeline of global trade and commerce.”
In his address, he emphasized that the symposium was not merely a professional forum but a collective responsibility to safeguard the dignity, aspirations, and welfare of Indian seafarers. He also announced the launch of the Crew Branch Annual Report 2024–25 and the Crew Manual, designed as comprehensive references for seafarers, regulators, and industry stakeholders.
Drawing from John F. Kennedy, Capt. Mukesh remarked:
“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other. Today, we come together to learn from each other, share experiences, and strengthen partnerships to ensure that our seafarers not only sail safely but thrive personally and professionally.”
His words set the tone for the sessions that followed, reinforcing the commitment to welfare-centric growth in maritime recruitment.
Chief Guest’s Vision
Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, delivered the Chief Guest’s address, outlining the Ministry’s vision for enhanced welfare, streamlined recruitment, and global competitiveness. He emphasized that Indian seafarers, celebrated for their competence and resilience, deserve the highest standards of care and transparency in recruitment processes.
Session Highlights
Session 1 – Government Perspectives
Trends in recruitment & welfare – Shri Ajithkumar Sukumaran.
RPSL roles & challenges – Capt. P.C. Meena, DDG (Crew).
E-Governance in training & RPSL processes – Shri Deepender Bisen, DDG Training.
Flagship initiatives – Capt. (Dr.) Daniel J. Joseph, DDG Tech, outlined Sagar Mein Yog, Sagar Mein Samman, Seafarers’ Rights and Code of Conduct.
FRRO representative addressed seafarer-related challenges at airports.
Session 2 – Industry & International Perspectives
RPSL inspections – shortcomings – Capt. Baljeet Singh, IR Class.
Seafarer abandonment cases – Shri Steve Trowsdale, ITF, UK (online).
Legal frameworks in maritime welfare – Shri Shiv Iyer.
P&I Club obligations – Capt. Gagan Dhillon, West of England P&I Club, UAE.
Global updates on work & rest hours – Capt. (Dr.) Bikram Singh Bhatia.
Session 3 – Panel Discussions
Interactive panels, moderated by DG Shipping officials, featured foreign consulates, MASSA, INSA, FOSMA, ICCSA, VRM, NUSI, MUI, and representatives of multilateral organizations including the IMF. The discussions revolved around international best practices, welfare measures, and collaborative recruitment frameworks.
Closing Session & Takeaways
The symposium concluded with an interactive Q&A, followed by a vote of thanks by Major Anutosh Singh (Retd.), Asst. DG (S), and the National Anthem. Delegates later engaged in networking over high tea.
Key Takeaway:
The symposium reinforced the Government of India’s unwavering commitment to a transparent, welfare-driven recruitment framework. It highlighted the need for continuous government-industry-international collaboration to ensure dignity, safety, and prosperity for Indian seafarers worldwide.
Capt. Nitin Mukesh – A Defining Role
Capt. Mukesh’s inaugural address emerged as a defining moment of the symposium. His words not only welcomed the dignitaries but also set a visionary, empathetic, and actionable agenda. By underscoring the sacrifice, resilience, and global contribution of Indian seafarers, he firmly positioned welfare at the center of maritime discourse.
As he aptly concluded:
“May the discussions and shared experiences here today serve as a beacon of guidance and inspiration, strengthening our commitment to the welfare, growth, and excellence of every seafarer who navigates the oceans of the world.