The ‘Seafarers Connect – We Are Together’ event on Saturday brought together the seafaring community, including many of its organizations and associations, to discuss a range of issues affecting them, including mental well-being and the fallout from the Red Sea conflict. The event, an initiative of the Director General of Shipping, India, brought together the Goa Maritime Officers Association (GMOA), Maritime Union of India (MUI), National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) and Goa Seamen’s Association of India. GSAI). The issue of mental welfare gained prominence.

Deputy Director General of Shipping (Crew) Captain (Dr) Daniel J Joseph, speaking to seafarers at Rabindra Bhawan in Margao, said, “Every soul at sea is important and precious. The rate at which I am receiving reports of sailors allegedly committing suicide is worrying. This is approximately five persons per month which is worrying. Hence we have started the concept of promoting mental well-being. The profession of seafarer is very challenging and you will feel lonely.”

Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shripad Naik, who was the chief guest, also spoke on the issue of the Red Sea conflict, which has affected shipping vessels, while suggesting yoga to get relief from stress.

“The impact of the Israel-Hamas war is still being felt on the shipping industry and central agencies, whether Navy or Defence, are working hard to ensure the safety of seafarers.”