Maritime Reforms Require Enforceable Protections for Seafarers

Maritime Reforms Require Enforceable Protections for Seafarers
Associate Editor February 23, 2026 https://maritimefairtrade.org/maritime-reforms-require-enforceable-prote...

India is undertaking significant reforms in its maritime sector through the “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047” (MAKV 2047) initiative, which aims to enhance trade relationships with key partners like the European Union and the United States. While these trade agreements focus on improving market access and the logistics of moving goods, a major weakness persists regarding the welfare of Indian seafarers. Their exploitation, isolation, and abandonment are critical issues that have not been adequately addressed in the ongoing reforms.

As India seeks to bolster its maritime economy amid geopolitical shifts, it has introduced notable legislative reforms, including the Indian Ports Act 2025 and various other shipping-related acts. These reforms are intended to modernize the country’s maritime infrastructure and legal framework. However, the neglect of seafarer welfare remains a pressing gap that could undermine India’s ambitions in this sector.

Seafarers are integral to global shipping, but they face significant challenges even before they board a vessel. Recruitment practices often involve exploitative contracts and lack transparency regarding wages and employment terms. While at sea, seafarers endure long periods of isolation and mental stress, often hindered by a rigid onboard hierarchy and limited communication options. Disputes on board frequently go unaddressed due to a lack of access to necessary resources and support.

The most severe risks arise during crises, such as vessel abandonment, where seafarers can find themselves stranded without pay, legal representation, or basic necessities. These issues translate into operational and reputational risks for Indian maritime interests, thwarting India’s goal of increasing its share in the global seafarer pool from 12% to 20%.

To align its practices with international standards, particularly the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) of 2006, India must implement enforceable protections for seafarers. These protections should be consistent across different recruiters, vessels, and ports, ensuring fair treatment and welfare for all workers. While recent legislative efforts show intent toward improving conditions, the focus must shift from policy language to concrete safeguards that are actively enforced.

Additionally, welfare can be viewed as an economic strategy. Enhanced seafarer protection can reduce disputes, improve employee retention, and enhance India’s position as a reliable source of maritime labor. Compliance with international safety standards, like SOLAS and MARPOL, should be routinely monitored, as welfare and safety are interlinked— a fatigued or unsupported crew poses both safety and compliance threats.

In conclusion, India’s maritime aspirations should prioritize tangible safeguards for seafarers, embedding their welfare into enforcement rather than treating it as an ancillary issue. A cohesive welfare framework aligned with global conventions, uniformly applied, and consistently enforced will strengthen both India’s maritime capacity and its global trade reputation. This approach aligns with the broader principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” emphasizing how India cares for those who facilitate its trade.