- Government launches major policy to empower women in maritime roles
- 739% growth in women seafarers from 2015 to 2024
- India targets 12% women in technical maritime roles by 2030
India celebrated the First International Day for Women in Maritime with a strong commitment towards gender equality in the maritime industry. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the ambitious 'Sagar Mein Samman' (SMS) policy, a trailblazing government policy intended to create a gender-balanced maritime industry workforce, enhancing women from dockside operations to executive ranks.
The SMS policy aims to advance women’s part in all maritime sectors by focusing on key sections such as property, safety, how maritime activities are led, consumer outreach and how women are trained and developed. Its purpose is to overcome challenges, maintain safety and hold on to women while advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) goals across the entire government.
At the event, Shri Sonowal emphasized the strategic significance of empowering women in maritime for sustainable development and innovation. Referring to the impressive growth in women seafarers from a mere 341 in 2014 to 2,557 in 2024, a phenomenal 649% increase, he also pointed out that government schemes of financial aid have benefitted close to 3,000 women seafarers, registering growing interest and opportunity in the field.
Shri Sonowal remarked, “Women’s leadership in maritime is not only a matter of equity but a strategic imperative for innovation and sustainability. Our ‘Nari Shakti’ forms the backbone of a new Bharat, driving the nation’s progress.” Under the visionary guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the initiative aligns with the Maritime India Vision 2030, which targets 12% female representation in technical maritime roles by 2030.
The event also recognised 10 outstanding women leaders from the shipping industry for their outstanding contributions and pioneering work in the field.
Under the SMS policy, the government commits to protecting the mental, physical, and professional health of women seafarers and promoting empowerment, leadership, and equal opportunities. Shri Sonowal averred, "This policy is not just a framework—it is a movement for change committed to creating an inclusive and sustainable future for maritime India."
Hosted by Directorate General of Shipping in association with Maritime Union of India and other stakeholders, the celebrations harmonized with the International Maritime Organization's vision and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, reaffirming India's commitment to a future-proof, gender-balanced maritime environment.
