The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has issued a directive requiring every Indian seafarer who holds a valid Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) to complete a yoga‑based wellness programme within the next twelve months. The training must be taken at a Directorate General of Shipping (DGS)‑approved Maritime Training Institute (MTI) and will be integrated into the existing certification process.
The circular, released in early June 2026, specifies that the wellness module will consist of a series of yoga postures, breathing exercises and stress‑management techniques designed to address the physical and mental strain associated with long periods at sea. Institutes that have already received DGS approval are tasked with incorporating the curriculum into their regular schedules and reporting completion rates to the ministry.
According to the ministry, the move aims to improve occupational health outcomes for seafarers, reduce fatigue‑related incidents, and align India’s maritime workforce with emerging global standards on crew well‑being. The directive also notes that failure to obtain a certificate of completion could result in the suspension of a sailor’s CDC until the requirement is met.
Industry bodies have welcomed the initiative but raised practical concerns. The Indian National Shipowners’ Association (INSA) highlighted the need for sufficient training slots, especially at smaller MTIs, and urged the government to consider subsidies or financial assistance for sailors who may face cost barriers. The All India Seafarers’ Federation (AISF) echoed these concerns, adding that a phased rollout could help mitigate disruption to crew rotations.
Analysis: The policy reflects a broader trend of incorporating holistic health measures into high‑risk occupations. By mandating yoga—a practice with deep cultural roots in India—the government may be seeking a low‑cost, easily scalable solution to combat fatigue, musculoskeletal injuries and mental health challenges that have been documented among seafarers worldwide. However, the effectiveness of such programmes will depend on implementation fidelity, trainer qualifications and the willingness of shipping companies to accommodate the training schedule without affecting operational readiness. Monitoring mechanisms, such as periodic audits of MTI compliance and post‑training health assessments, will be critical to determine whether the initiative delivers measurable safety benefits.
Sources
– “Seafarers to undergo mandatory yoga‑based wellness training,” The Hindu, June 2026. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/seafarers-to-undergo-mandatory-yoga-based-wellness-training/article71190325.ece
Story synopsis gathered from: The Hindu – National — source
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