Union Minister of State, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur said that the unique contributions of women are vital to India’s maritime strength and women seafarers embody resilience and excellence on the global stage.
Launching officially the logos and themes of “Sagar Mein Yog – Complete Wellness Programme” and “Sagar Mein Samman”, respectively at The Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), Mumbai, on Thursday, he pointing out that the initiative is crucial for ensuring that female seafarers, who often face distinct challenges while working far from home, are celebrated and supported.
Further, he emphasised the profound connection between yoga and Indian heritage, noting the programme’s significance for our nearly 3 lakhs plus active seafarers, who face unique challenges while serving far from home.
As global ambassadors of India, our seafarers would exemplify the nation’s resilient spirit and maritime excellence, he added. Inspired by the Honourable Prime Minister’s Maritime India Vision 2030, “Sagar Mein Samman” is a transformative initiative aimed at recognising and enhancing the role of women in the maritime industry.
The programme echoes fostering respect and empowerment and seeks to ensure that women seafarers can thrive and navigate their careers with dignity and pride. Further, Sagar Mein Yog focuses on wellness at every stage by integrating yoga and wellbeing practices into maritime training and operations at stages such as Pre-Sea, At-Sea, and Post-Sea for ensuring seafarers remain resilient, balanced and prepared for every journey.
Shri Shyam Jaganathan, Director General of Shipping, emphasised that under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Maritime India Vision 2030 symbolises hope by uplifting women seafarers and steering India toward maritime excellence.
The "Sagar Mein Samman" initiative was born from this vision, aiming to enhance the respect and recognition afforded to women in the maritime community. Further, he added that the Prime Minister’s vision symbolizes hope-empowering oceans, uplifting seafarers and steering India toward maritime excellence.
By tracking health outcomes, Sagar Mein Yog will refine and expand its offerings to meet seafarers’ evolving needs. The initiative is expected to reduce medical emergencies, lower healthcare costs, and decrease turnover rates, creating a supportive maritime environment.
Sagar Mein Yog stands as a symbol of our unwavering commitment to the holistic well-being of our seafarers before, during and after their voyages. The launch event was attended by stakeholders and seafarers reaffirming India’s commitment to setting a global benchmark for seafarer health. From the vast Indian Ocean to our shores of progress, India’s maritime legacy continues to drive growth.