Padmesh Prabhune

To address the increasing incidents of mental disorders among seafarers along with sign-off related issues, Capt Daniel Joseph Dy Director General of Shipping (Techical / Crew) has launched the first of its kind initiative called The Seafarers Connect – Hum Saath Saath Hain.

The initiative focuses on creating greater awareness about maintaining mental well-being on ships and includes reaching out to seafarers regularly; conducting a series of communications in association with shipping / manning companies via online meetings with the sole objective of ensuring appropriate timely psychological support to avoid any untoward incident.

The inaugural session was recently held in association with Fleet Management Limited on Sunday December 17, 2023 via an on-line Zoom meeting that was attended over 75 participants.

Capt Daniel said, “Of late we have seen an increase in the number of suicidal / near miss suicidal attempts among seafarers, followed by the never ending anguish due to various unknown reasons. We want to address this problem and this is a baby step from my side wherein I will connect on a regular basis. Perhaps the organizing company might change but this would be a recurring chain of actions.”

The DG Shipping is already working on upgrading systems at Seafarers’ Grievance Redressal cell to address the complaints.

Capt Daniel further urged all the seafarers to de-stress / de-tox themselves by speaking out their frustration to fellow members / friends or the Captain on board, adding that they should always be happy and try to overcome unnecessary tensions and /or mental stress.

He said, “We all know this is a very important and responsible job. Seafarers are away from family and at times there can be issues, but they should speak up. If need be, please reach out to the medical experts / professionals available on-board. They are just a call away; do not hesitate. All seafarers are our Laadlas and Laadlis”

Capt Daniel also highlighted on sign–off related issues wherein many a time seafarers tend to give flimsy excuses to go home. Terming such behavior as highly unprofessional, Capt Daniel requested the seafarers to avoid such malpractices as this would have a cascading effect not only on the voyage and /or the shipowner, it would also affect their careers.

Further, admitting to the fact that at times despite completion of tenure one has to continue in absence of a suitable reliever, he suggested seafarers to consider it as a business compulsion, and not to shy of completing their tour of duty. Moreover he advised them to ensure the sign-on / sign-offs are properly registered in their masterdoc and to insist upon timely rectification in case of any discrepancies.

Both the issues were equally supported by many inputs / suggestions from audiences of the likes of Capt Karanjikar, Capt Deevesh, Capt Philip Mathew, Mr Vimalson L.P, to name some.

The next session will be very soon, perhaps with another shipping company.
Marex Media