11 hours ago
State to ensure seafarers receive permanent pension, says Sawant
Margao:
Chief minister Pramod Sawant on Wednesday said that the pension scheme for Goan seafarers would be made permanent. This assurance was given during the Seafarers' Day event organised by the Goan Seamen Association of India.
Sawant announced his govt's commitment to addressing the concerns of Goan seafarers. 'Seafarers are the pride of Goa, with a tradition that spans over a century,' he said.
The chief minister also promised that if BJP is re-elected to office in 2027, the pension amount for seafarers would be increased by an additional thousand rupees.
Goa govt, through its NRI department, provides financial assistance of Rs 2,500 per month to retired seafarers and widows through the Goa seafarers welfare pension scheme.
Apart from the hike in pension assurance, Sawant revealed plans to introduce skill training courses in Goa, aimed at equipping local youth with the necessary skills to pursue careers as seafarers. Sawant said the initiative will open new employment opportunities and enhance the skill set of the Goan workforce. The proposed skill training courses are expected to cover various aspects of maritime operations, ensuring that the youth are well-prepared to meet the demands of the global shipping industry.
Seafarers who have dedicated 25 years of service on the high seas were honoured on the occasion, recognising their invaluable contribution to the state and the nation.
