Global Seafarers Centres
Indian Ports · MLC 2006 · ILO Regulation 4.4
Welcoming Indian & International Seafarers
Across Major & Minor Ports of India
Global Seafarers Centres are established by Port Welfare Committees, seafarers' organizations, and international seafarers' missions in accordance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, Regulation 4.4, to promote the welfare and well-being of seafarers visiting Indian ports.
The Merchant Navy Welfare Board (India), in association with the Global Seafarers Organisation and other international maritime welfare bodies, supports the training and development of welfare officers appointed by Port Welfare Committees and international welfare organizations. These welfare officers are dedicated to assisting seafarers visiting ports across India by providing guidance, welfare support, and access to essential services during their stay in port.
The centres serve as dedicated welfare hubs offering communication facilities, counselling, recreational opportunities, transportation assistance, emergency support, and other essential services to ensure seafarers have a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment while ashore.
Through Port Welfare Committees cooperation and volunteer support, Global Seafarers Centres uphold the dignity, welfare, and quality of life of seafarers, recognizing their vital contribution to global trade and the maritime industry.
As part of the implementation of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, has facilitated the establishment of Port Welfare Committees at Indian ports. These committees comprise representatives from Port Authorities, Terminal Operators, Port Health Organizations, Port Officers, Port State Control Offices, Seafarers' Unions, International Seafarers' Missions, Shipowners, and Seafarers' Welfare Organizations, working together to promote and enhance the quality of welfare services available to seafarers at Indian ports.
The Merchant Navy Welfare Board (India) supports the training and development of welfare officers appointed by Port Welfare Committees, Seafarers' Missions, and maritime welfare organizations. These dedicated welfare officers visit ships and seafarers in port, providing guidance, welfare assistance, emergency support, and access to essential services to enhance the well-being of both Indian and foreign seafarers during their stay ashore.
Comprehensive welfare support across major and minor ports of India
Submit your concern and a dedicated Welfare Officer will respond at the earliest.
We express our sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, for their visionary leadership in implementing the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 (Regulation 4.4) of the International Labour Organization, and for establishing Seafarers' Welfare Centres across all Indian ports, thereby significantly enhancing the welfare, dignity, and well-being of seafarers.
