Sagar Mein Samman
The Government of India launched the ‘Sagar Mein Samman’ initiative to enhance women’s participation in the maritime sector. This initiative was revealed by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal during the International Day for Women in Maritime celebrations in Mumbai. The goal is to create a gender-equitable workforce in maritime operations, from docks to decision-making boards. This policy aligns with the government’s objectives of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
Objectives of the Initiative
The Sagar Mein Samman initiative aims to empower women in maritime through several key objectives. These include promoting inclusivity, ensuring safety, and providing equal opportunities. The initiative also focuses on skill development and leadership training for women. It seeks to dismantle gender-based barriers within the maritime profession.
Growth in Women Seafarers
Since 2014, there has been increase in the number of women seafarers in India. The figure rose from 341 in 2014 to 2,557 in 2024, marking a 649% increase. The government has provided financial assistance to nearly 3,000 women seafarers during this period. This surge reflects the successful efforts to encourage women to pursue careers in maritime.
Key Features of the Policy
The policy encompasses planning and strategy, training and development, research, and community outreach. It aims to create a structured roadmap for women’s participation in maritime. The initiative also includes incentives for shipping companies to hire women and scholarships to support their training and development.
Recognition of Women Leaders
During the launch event, ten outstanding women from the maritime sector were honoured for their contributions. This recognition marks the achievements of women in a traditionally male-dominated field. The event also featured discussions on leadership and equity in maritime.
Future Goals
The initiative aims for a target of 12% female representation in technical maritime roles by 2030. This target aligns with national objectives and the broader vision of sustainable development. The government emphasises that empowering women is not only about equity but also a strategic necessity for the growth of the maritime sector.
International Alignment
Sagar Mein Samman aligns with the International Maritime Organisation’s mission for gender inclusion. It also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The initiative is part of a larger commitment to promote gender equality in all sectors.
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