PANAJI: A delegation from the Goa Maritime Officers Association (GMOA) met Ports Minister Digambar Kamat at the Assembly Complex in Alto Porvorim yesterday and submitted a memorandum outlining key demands aimed at strengthening the maritime sector and supporting seafarers in the state.
During the meeting, the delegation briefed the minister on the association’s objectives and its initiatives to promote unity and professional development among maritime officers in Goa.
Highlighting the concerns of the seafaring community, the association urged the government to establish a full-fledged Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) office in Vasco. At present, maritime officers and seafarers often have to travel outside the state to access essential services. The proposed office, they said, would facilitate certification processes, issuance of Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDC) and Dangerous Cargo Endorsements (DCE), as well as maritime examinations within the State.
The GMOA also submitted a detailed proposal seeking the establishment of a Maritime Bhavan and Maritime Convention Centre in Salcette. The facility is envisioned as a hub for maritime activities, training programmes, professional development sessions, and industry engagements.
Kamat acknowledged the concerns raised by the delegation and appreciated the association’s efforts in representing the maritime fraternity. He assured the delegation that the government would look into the proposals and expressed support for initiatives that strengthen the maritime sector in the State.
