The ISWAN (International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network) India Seminar 2025, held recently in Mumbai, convened a diverse group of stakeholders from the maritime sector, including seafarers, cadets, families, industry leaders, and government officials, to address the pressing issues surrounding seafarer wellbeing and retention. Under the theme “Attract, Retain, Sustain: Supporting the Wellbeing of Seafarers and their Families,” this half-day seminar focused on pivotal career transitions for seafarers, emphasizing the need for a supportive framework throughout their professional journeys.
Keynote speaker Mr. Shyam Jagannathan, IAS and Director General of Shipping from the Government of India, underscored the national priority of seafarers’ welfare. He referenced a Memorandum of Understanding between the Directorate General of Shipping and ISWAN, aiming to enhance collaboration on essential areas such as mental health, safety, family welfare, and training. This affirmation reinforced the government’s commitment to improving conditions for seafarers and their families.
Representatives from Fleet Management Limited, a Platinum Sponsor, also contributed to the discussions. Capt. Randhir S. Mahadik provided greetings, while a recorded message from Capt. Deepak Correa, the COO, highlighted the industry’s responsibility to prioritize people. He stressed that initiatives geared toward seafarer wellbeing—exemplified by Fleet Management’s Fleet Care initiatives—are vital for building confidence, care, and strong family connections, which, in turn, promote the effective retention of seafarers.
The seminar showcased the launch of three new ISWAN initiatives aimed at facilitating support for seafarers throughout their careers and personal lives: the ‘SEAS’ Induction Programme, ‘Together in Care: A Workshop for Shore Staff,’ and ‘Sailing Together: A Family Handbook to Support Seafarers at Sea and Ashore.’ These initiatives are tailored to bolster the journey of seafarers, from their first voyages to navigating family life and shore engagement.
A highlight of the event was the interactive session titled “Charting the Course: Seafarers’ Voices,” which amplified the experiences and insights of seafarers and their families. During this session, participants shared genuine accounts of life both at sea and onshore, illuminating the emotional challenges and realities faced in the maritime profession. This exchange enriched the discussions that followed on topics such as induction, shore-side support, and overall seafarer wellbeing, providing a contextual foundation for deeper engagement on these critical issues.
The ISWAN India Seminar 2025 successfully fostered a platform for collaboration and innovative thinking, aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of seafarers and ensuring the sustainability of the maritime workforce.
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