A delegation from the Goa Maritime Officers Association (GMOA) called on Minister for Ports and Captain of Ports, Digambar Kamat to discuss the development of the maritime sector and the welfare of maritime professionals in the state.
The GMOA representatives briefed the Minister on the association’s objectives and its ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering unity and professional growth within the maritime officer community. During the interaction, the delegation extended a formal invitation to the Minister to visit the GMOA office located in Comba, Margao.
Highlighting the pressing needs of the seafaring community, the GMOA presented a formal memorandum addressing two critical demands -- establishment of a Full-Fledged Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) in Vasco, with the association stressing on the urgent requirement for a fully functional MMD office in Vasco. “Currently, maritime officers and seafarers face significant hardship by having to travel outside the state for essential services. The proposed office would streamline processes related to certification, the issuance of Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDC) and Dangerous Cargo Endorsements (DCE), and the conduct of maritime examinations, bringing these vital services closer to home”, the memorandum stated.
Secondly, the delegation mooted a Proposal for Goa Maritime Bhavan and Maritime Convention Centre in Salcete. In this respect, the GMOA submitted a detailed white paper proposing the establishment of a dedicated Maritime Bhavan and Convention Centre in Salcete. This facility is envisioned as a central hub to host maritime activities, professional development programs, training sessions, and industry engagements, thereby consolidating Goa’s position as a key maritime hub”. Acknowledging the proactive role of the GMOA and appreciated their efforts in voicing the concerns of the maritime fraternity, the Minister assured the delegation of the government’s support and reiterated his commitment to working collaboratively on initiatives that would strengthen and benefit the maritime officers' community in Goa.
