South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes has written to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, urging the central government to address long-standing gaps in maritime welfare, particularly the indignity faced by Indian seafarers who are denied shore leave at domestic ports. Fernandes also presented a five-point proposal to overhaul Goa's maritime infrastructure, developed in consultation with maritime professionals and the Goa Maritime Officers Association.
Shore Leave: A Humanitarian Issue
At the core of Fernandes' letter is the issue of shore leave. He emphasized that facilitating shore leave is not merely an administrative matter but a humanitarian and welfare issue directly linked to the mental well-being, maritime safety, and dignity of seafarers who spend extended periods at sea. He called for urgent intervention by the ministry to address this concern.
Five-Point Proposal for Goa's Maritime Sector
The proposals cover five key areas, balancing welfare imperatives with Goa's strategic potential as a maritime hub. First, Fernandes called for the full operationalisation of the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) office in Goa, including the posting of a principal officer and conducting all certificate of competency examinations locally. This would reduce the administrative burden on maritime professionals who currently must travel to other cities.
Education and Skill Development
The establishment of an Indian Maritime University campus in Goa, along with a degree programme in Naval Architecture, featured prominently in the proposals. Fernandes argued that such institutions would strengthen skill development, generate employment for local youth, and support India's expanding shipbuilding and ship repair sectors.
Seamen's Club at Mormugao Port
Fernandes also called for a Seamen's Club at Mormugao Port, noting that Goa receives thousands of seafarers annually as a growing cruise tourism destination, yet offers no shore-based welfare or recreational facilities.
Given Goa's seafaring tradition stretching back generations, Fernandes said the proposals aim to ensure that legacy is matched by modern institutions and infrastructure.
