01/11/2025
*India Maritime Week 2025 – GMIS: Maritime Human Capital*
*NUSI Proudly Represents Indian Seafarers at a Landmark Industry Forum*
The India Maritime Week 2025, held from 27th to 31st October 2025 at the NESCO Convention Centre, Mumbai, featured a pivotal session on Maritime Human Capital on 30th October 2025. The session highlighted India’s focus on shaping a skilled and future-ready maritime workforce and brought together leading policymakers, industry experts, and professionals to discuss the evolving landscape of seafaring, technology, and human capital development.
The session commenced with the invitation of the Chief Guest, Hon’ble Minister of Labour and Employment, followed by the lighting of the lamp and felicitation of dignitaries. Capt. B. K. Tyagi, CMD, Shipping Corporation of India, delivered the welcome address.
This was followed by a presentation by Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, who shared insights on the Directorate’s initiatives to enhance India’s maritime manpower. A special felicitation ceremony celebrated pioneering women achievers in the maritime field, along with Capt. J. C. Anand, Founder of IR Class.
The keynote address by Shri Mansukh L. Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister of Labour and Employment, outlined his vision for strengthening India’s maritime labour framework and supporting the nation’s seafaring community. He also emphasized on how India has been a pioneer in shipping and shipbuilding since ancient times, when much of the world was still unaware of sea navigation. Indian sailors and craftsmen were building strong wooden ships and navigating vast ocean routes for trade routes, establishing India’s historic legacy as a global maritime leader.
The two engaging panel discussions were as follows:
The session was moderated by Capt. Mahendra Bhasin.
Panel Discussion I – “Seafarers of the Future: Building a Modern Maritime Workforce” explored strategies to align maritime education and training with global industry demands.
Panel Discussion II – “Charting Tomorrow: Talent, Technology, and Transformation in Maritime Human Capital” examined innovation, inclusivity, and technological advancements shaping the next generation of maritime professionals.
Among the eminent speakers was Mr. Sunil Nair, Assistant General Secretary, National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI), who represented the voice of Indian seafarers.
*Question 1:* From the union’s perspective, how should the industry approach this competency evolution? What is the way that is fair to the seafarers, and what are the responsibilities of the employers, the broader industry, and the seafarers themselves in developing new capabilities, adopting new technologies, and handling them onboard ships?
Mr. Sunil Nair responded that skill enhancement and training are continuous processes in the career of seafarers. For this, there must be consistent support and encouragement from employers, because at the end of the day, ships worth millions of dollars are entrusted to seafarers to operate, maintain, and generate business. Therefore, investing in human capital, the seafarers and key workers, is a worthwhile and necessary investment to ensure that vital skills are nurtured and sustained.
He further emphasized that training should follow a defined timeline so that seafarers are aware of which competencies are essential for them and for the industry, especially in emerging areas such as green fuels, autonomous shipping, and artificial intelligence. He added that it would be greatly beneficial to have greater government participation in training initiatives, not only in developing hard skills but also through investment in soft skills.
*Question 2:* What are the most critical factors beyond wages that must change to make seafaring a genuinely sustainable profession in the long term?
Mr. Sunil Nair highlighted that one of the immediate requirements for the current and next generation of seafarers is to have reliable internet connectivity onboard ships. During the ILO’s review of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), a day and a half was dedicated to exploring the possibilities of ensuring onboard internet access, which can be achieved through the combined efforts of all stakeholders.
He further stated that, to sustain seafarers in the profession, it is equally important that rest hours onboard ships are diligently honoured. Additionally, shore leave provides seafarers with essential time away from their demanding duties and offers opportunities to engage with various welfare initiatives available at ports.
Mr. Nair concluded by emphasizing that it is essential to value and respect seafarers, recognizing their vital contribution to global trade and the maritime industry.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks, presentation of mementoes, and the National Anthem.
It was a moment of great pride for NUSI as Mr. Sunil Nair, Assistant General Secretary represented the collective voice of Indian seafarers on a prestigious national platform alongside Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Union Minister of Labour and Employment, and other distinguished maritime leaders.
The event reaffirmed India’s steadfast commitment to nurturing maritime excellence and ensuring that Indian seafarers continue to lead the global shipping industry with skill, resilience, and professionalism.
You can view the entire panel discussion https://www.youtube.com/live/qGStx8TQC80?si=ossukqQT-v2o1o0q
Directorate General of Shipping, India
