MARGAO
There’s good news in store for seamen as the Seamen's Provident Fund Organisation (SPFO) is in the process of introducing two schemes, Seafarer’s Gratuity Fund scheme and Seafarer’s Annuity Fund Scheme.
In a letter addressed to the Goan Seamen Association of India, Commissioner Seamen’s Provident Fund Organisation, Mumbai, Surendra Kumar has informed that the SPFO has already considered the situation of seafarers and his office is in the process of introducing the two schemes.
The Commissioner has further informed that it is decided to include foreign flag vessels in the ambit of the SPF Act to provide more social security and benefits to all Indian seafarers.
The Commissioner, however, said that to introduce both the schemes and foreign flag vessels which are not covered under SPF Act and Scheme, 1966, amendments in SPF Act and Scheme, 1966 are required, which will be processed after consideration with the Board of Trustees of SPFO.
The Commissioner addressed the letter to the GSAI after the organisation had written to the SPFO to consider Provident Fund, Gratuity and Pension to all ranks of seafarers working on Indian and Foreign Flagship.
Commenting on the development, GSAI president Frank Viegas has said the Seamen Provident Fund Organisation (SPFO) (Under the Ministry of Shipping, Ports & Waterways) is in the process of introducing two schemes -- Seafarers Gratuity Fund & Seafarers Annuity Fund Scheme for all Indian seafarers.
Frank reminded that the GSAI had demanded to consider Provident Fund, Gratuity and Pension for all ranks of seafarers serving on Indian and foreign flagships of all types that is Cruise Ships or Merchant Navy.
“It is our utmost concern that seafarers should be given these facilities with due respect for their contribution towards the maritime industry so at the time of retirement they are retired happily. This request would work in a great manner to retain professionals, who have started looking for better opportunities onshore and have already thought of quitting sea life. It will also attract the newer generation to consider taking up this profession,” the GSAI had stated in its letter.
