The recent ISWAN Seminar 2024 in Mumbai marked a significant moment for the maritime industry, bringing together over 150 stakeholders to address pressing issues affecting seafarers. Organized by the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) in collaboration with Gujarat Maritime University, the seminar focused on the alarming rise of fraudulent crewing agents in India, a topic that resonates deeply within the community. With the launch of a new research report, ISWAN aims to shed light on this issue and provide actionable recommendations to safeguard seafarers from exploitation.
The discussions at the seminar were as diverse as the participants themselves, covering family support, the implications of decarbonisation, and the challenges posed by unethical recruitment practices. Deepak Shetty, a seasoned figure in the maritime sector, emphasized the necessity of collaboration among industry players to enhance welfare initiatives. His call to action highlights a growing recognition that the maritime industry must unite to tackle systemic issues affecting seafarers and their families.
Prof. (Dr.) Tanuja Kaushik’s insights into the legal complexities surrounding fraudulent crewing practices underscored the urgent need for regulatory reform. With the maritime landscape continuously evolving, Capt. JC Anand, a venerable figure at 103 years old, captivated the audience with his reflections on the industry’s trajectory. His message was clear: training and ethical practices are not just ideals; they are essential for the future of maritime operations.
The seminar also spotlighted the importance of holistic welfare approaches, as articulated by Rene Anderson, CEO of Sea Health and Welfare. The need for comprehensive support systems for seafarers has never been more critical, especially as the industry grapples with the implications of decarbonisation. Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping, India, highlighted the directorate’s commitment to digitizing grievance redressal mechanisms, aiming to streamline processes for seafarers in distress.
Moreover, the event marked a pivotal moment with the launch of the Family Outreach Programme (FOP), inspired by ISWAN’s success in the Philippines. This initiative aims to provide robust support to seafarers’ families, recognizing that their well-being is intrinsically linked to the mental health of those at sea. The partnership formalized between ISWAN and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) further emphasizes this commitment, leveraging TISS’s expertise in mental health support through initiatives like the iCall helpline.
As the maritime industry faces geopolitical challenges and evolving security threats, the insights shared by Commander Abeer Sharma from the Indian Navy highlighted the necessity for knowledge sharing between naval forces and the maritime sector. This collaboration is vital for addressing the complex landscape of maritime security, particularly in regions like West Asia.
The seminar concluded on a high note, with Simon Grainge summarizing the critical discussions and Chirag Bahri extending gratitude to all participants. The inclusion of an interactive app-based contest added a modern twist to the proceedings, engaging attendees in a lively manner.
In essence, the ISWAN Seminar 2024 not only tackled immediate concerns but also set the stage for future developments in the maritime sector. By focusing on ethical recruitment, mental health support, and family outreach, the industry is poised for a transformative shift that prioritizes the welfare of seafarers and their families. As maritime stakeholders take these discussions to heart, the hope is that the changes initiated here will resonate far beyond the seminar halls, fostering a culture of care and responsibility in the maritime world.
