New Delhi | 18 December 2025
The Second Edition of the National Symposium on “Seafarers’ Recruitment and Welfare” was successfully held in New Delhi on Wednesday, bringing together senior government officials, maritime regulators, industry leaders, welfare institutions, and seafarer representatives to deliberate on strengthening recruitment frameworks and welfare mechanisms for Indian seafarers.
Organised by the Seafarers’ Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) under the aegis of the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, the symposium took place at the Civil Services Officers Institute (CSOI), Chanakyapuri. The theme of the symposium was “हर लहर, हर यात्रा – नाविक का कल्याण”, highlighting the government’s commitment to a welfare-centric maritime ecosystem.
High-Level Government Participation
The symposium built upon deliberations from its first edition held in Mumbai earlier this year and focused on rights-based governance, transparent recruitment, and holistic welfare of Indian seafarers.
The inaugural session featured key addresses by:
Capt. S. I. Abul Kalam Azad, Nautical Advisor-cum-Additional Director General, DG Shipping
Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde, IPS, Additional Director General (Shipping)
Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, who delivered the keynote address
Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha, IAS, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
A video message from Shri Vijay Kumar, IAS, Secretary, MoPSW, outlined the Ministry’s long-term vision for a safe, secure, and welfare-driven maritime workforce.
Focus on Recruitment, Welfare & Mental Wellbeing
The technical sessions addressed regulatory challenges, enforcement of seafarers’ rights, and accountability of Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) companies.
Capt. P. C. Meena, Deputy Director General (Crew Branch), DG Shipping, spoke on RPSL responsibilities, recruitment challenges, and enforcement of the Seafarers’ Code of Conduct.
Officials from SWFS and the Seafarers’ Provident Fund Organisation (SPFO) highlighted ongoing welfare schemes, social security reforms, and future roadmaps aimed at improving financial and social protection for seafarers.
Special emphasis was laid on mental health and dignity at sea through flagship initiatives such as “Sagar Mein Yog” and “Sagar Mein Samman”, presented by industry and wellness experts.
Panel Discussions
Two in-depth panel discussions were held:
Panel I: Seafarers’ Recruitment, examining regulatory oversight and recruitment challenges
Panel II: Seafarers’ Welfare, focusing on industry responsibility and effective welfare delivery
Senior representatives from DG Shipping, MoPSW, INSA, MASSA, FOSMA, NUSI, and maritime training institutes participated in these discussions.
Way Forward
The symposium concluded with an interactive Q&A session, followed by a vote of thanks and reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, welfare, and dignity of Indian seafarers.
The event underscored the growing recognition that seafarer welfare is central to maritime safety, sustainability, and India’s global maritime standing.