Hindu Editorial Analysis : 26-April-2024
India recently presented significant documents to the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Legal Committee due to rising safety concerns for Indian seafarers. These issues have prompted the need for stronger regulations and support for those working at sea.
India’s Role in the Global Shipping Industry
India holds an important position in the global shipping industry:
- Third-Largest Provider: It is the third-largest supplier of seafarers globally, after China and the Philippines.
- Current Representation: Indian seafarers make up 9.35% of the worldwide maritime workforce.
- Future Goals: India aims to increase this share to 20% over the next 10 to 20 years, relying on ship management companies for support.
- Current Workforce: Approximately 250,000 Indian seafarers are currently employed on specialized cargo vessels across the globe.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian seafarers showcased their resilience, which improved India’s reputation in the maritime sector. Additionally, the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict has created new opportunities within India’s maritime industry.
Major Challenges
The maritime industry, crucial for global trade, faces numerous challenges:
- Safety Concerns: Recent attacks on commercial ships have raised fears among Indian seafarers. Many are contemplating leaving their jobs due to security risks.
- Increase in Piracy: Data from the International Maritime Bureau indicates over a 10% rise in piracy incidents recently.
- Specific Incidents:
- Somali pirates attacked vessels such as the MV Ruen and MV Lila Norfolk in late 2023.
- Attacks have also occurred in critical areas like the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz.
Furthermore, some Iranian shipping companies are luring Indian seafarers with false promises of high salaries, leading to exploitation:
- Poor Working Conditions: Many seafarers face overwork, inadequate food, and are often forced to transport illegal cargo.
- Exploitation Reports: Since 2020, over 200 cases of exploitation have been reported to the Indian Maritime Administration. Most of these individuals lacked legal representation and were unaware of their rights.
Recent Developments by India
In response to these pressing issues, India has taken several important steps:
- Legal Submissions: India’s documents to the IMO focus on enhancing seafarers’ security and improving contract terms.
- Comprehensive Approach: It advocates for a broad strategy to ensure maritime security, emphasizing international cooperation to combat piracy and other maritime threats.
- Rights Protection: India has highlighted the negative impact of unlawful recruitment practices on seafarers and urged for international coordination to uphold seafarers’ rights under the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006.
Why In News
India submitted important papers to the 111th Session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Legal Committee (LEG) in response to escalating safety concerns among Indian seafarers, highlighting the urgent need for improved protections and regulations in the maritime industry.
MCQs about India’s Maritime Challenges and Initiatives
- What percentage of the global seafaring population does India currently represent?
A. 5.5%
B. 7.5%
C. 9.35%
D. 12%
- What major global event highlighted the resilience and professionalism of Indian seafarers?
A. The Ukraine-Russia conflict
B. The COVID-19 pandemic
C. The Gulf War
D. The financial crisis
- Which of the following issues has been a significant challenge for Indian seafarers recently?
A. Lack of job opportunities
B. Increased safety concerns due to piracy
C. Low salary offers
D. Limited training programs
- What initiative has the Indian government launched to protect the rights of seafarers?
A. Maritime Security Task Force
B. Human Rights at Sea initiative
C. Global Seafarer Protection Program
D. Maritime Labour Convention, 2006
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