NT Reporter
Vasco
South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes has urged Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal to consider a series of proposals aimed at strengthening Goa’s maritime infrastructure and improving welfare measures for seafarers and maritime professionals.
In the letter, Fernandes said generations of Goan seafarers have earned worldwide recognition as sailors, engineers, officers and master mariners. He also expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for
supporting the establishment of an IMU-CET examination centre in Goa,
which has provided relief to aspiring maritime students in the state.
Among the key proposals submitted are the appointment of a Principal Officer at the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) Goa and the full operationalisation of the office to conduct all Certificate of Competency examinations locally. Fernandes said that this would improve administrative efficiency and reduce inconvenience faced by maritime professionals.
The MP has also proposed the establishment of an Indian Maritime University (IMU) campus in Goa, along with maritime education and training programmes aimed at boosting skill development and employment opportunities for local youth.
Raising concerns over the difficulties faced by Indian seafarers in obtaining shore leave at ports, Fernandes said that the issue needs urgent attention as it directly impacts the mental well-being, dignity and safety of seafarers who spend long periods at sea.
Another major proposal includes the setting up of a Seamen’s Club at Mormugao Port to provide welfare and recreational facilities for visiting seafarers. Fernandes said that Goa’s emergence as a major maritime and cruise tourism destination has increased the need for such infrastructure.
The proposals also include the introduction of a degree programme in Naval Architecture in Goa to support the growth of shipbuilding, ship repair and maritime engineering sectors.
