New Delhi, India has called for effective measures to resolve the issue of seafarer abandonment and ensure the safety of the maritime workforce, an official statement said on Wednesday.
A high-level Indian delegation led by Secretary of Ports, Shipping and Waterways T K Ramachandaran raised the issue at the 132nd session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London.
In recognition of its continued commitment to addressing seafarers' issues, India secured its position as one of the eight governments representing the IMO in the joint tripartite working group, he said.
"India, an elected member of the IMO Council in the category of countries with greatest interest in international maritime trade, emphasized the urgent issue of abandonment of seafarers," the statement said.
The delegation noted that despite efforts, there are 44 active cases involving 292 Indian seafarers, the statement added.
"India's strong stance on the need for effective measures and oversight to resolve such issues was welcomed," he said.
According to the statement, India reiterated its proposal for the South Asia Center of Excellence for Sustainable Shipping (SACE-SMarT).
This group is dedicated to identifying and addressing seafarer issues and the human element in maritime operations. Other proposed members include the Philippines, Thailand, Liberia, Panama, Greece, the United States and France, he added.
Ramachandaran said: "India remains deeply committed to addressing the issue of seafarer abandonment and ensuring the safety and well-being of our maritime workforce."
According to the statement, the Indian delegation also addressed concerns over disruptions in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and adjoining areas, which have been affecting shipping and trade logistics.
Highlighting India's commitment to maritime security, the delegation cited two major incidents in which the Indian Navy successfully intervened.
"These included the rescue of a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, MV Marlyn Luanda, and the interception of the vessel MV Ruen off the coast of Somalia, ensuring the safety of crew members and effectively managing piracy threats. ", said.
India's participation in the IMO Council session underlines the dedication to international maritime cooperation and innovation.
The 132nd session of the IMO Council, which began on 8 July, will continue until 12 July and will address various issues and proposals critical to the future of global maritime operations.
A high-level Indian delegation led by Secretary of Ports, Shipping and Waterways T K Ramachandaran raised the issue at the 132nd session of the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London.
In recognition of its continued commitment to addressing seafarers' issues, India secured its position as one of the eight governments representing the IMO in the joint tripartite working group, he said.
"India, an elected member of the IMO Council in the category of countries with greatest interest in international maritime trade, emphasized the urgent issue of abandonment of seafarers," the statement said.
The delegation noted that despite efforts, there are 44 active cases involving 292 Indian seafarers, the statement added.
"India's strong stance on the need for effective measures and oversight to resolve such issues was welcomed," he said.
According to the statement, India reiterated its proposal for the South Asia Center of Excellence for Sustainable Shipping (SACE-SMarT).
This group is dedicated to identifying and addressing seafarer issues and the human element in maritime operations. Other proposed members include the Philippines, Thailand, Liberia, Panama, Greece, the United States and France, he added.
Ramachandaran said: "India remains deeply committed to addressing the issue of seafarer abandonment and ensuring the safety and well-being of our maritime workforce."
According to the statement, the Indian delegation also addressed concerns over disruptions in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and adjoining areas, which have been affecting shipping and trade logistics.
Highlighting India's commitment to maritime security, the delegation cited two major incidents in which the Indian Navy successfully intervened.
"These included the rescue of a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, MV Marlyn Luanda, and the interception of the vessel MV Ruen off the coast of Somalia, ensuring the safety of crew members and effectively managing piracy threats. ", said.
India's participation in the IMO Council session underlines the dedication to international maritime cooperation and innovation.
The 132nd session of the IMO Council, which began on 8 July, will continue until 12 July and will address various issues and proposals critical to the future of global maritime operations.
