The Goan Seamen Association of India (GSAI) has written to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal seeking changes to the recently announced Old Age Benefit Scheme for seafarers aged 75 and above.
The scheme, introduced by the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS), provides financial support of ₹1 lakh to seafarers who have completed 75 years of age from January 1, 2026.
In its representation, the association urged the government to extend the benefit to all retired seafarers, including widows of deceased seafarers aged 75 years and above.
The association said the current eligibility conditions could exclude many deserving beneficiaries who spent decades working on ships and contributing to the maritime sector.
The issue was raised by members during the association’s annual general body meeting held on February 28, where concerns were expressed that several retired sailors may not qualify under the existing clauses of the scheme.
The association also highlighted delays in payments under the Monthly Ex-gratia Monetary Assistance (MEMA) welfare scheme run by the SWFS.
According to the association, many retired seafarers and widows registered with the welfare fund have received notifications regarding the one-time lump sum benefit under MEMA. While some beneficiaries have received the payment, a number of others are still awaiting disbursement.
The association said the delay has caused financial uncertainty for several elderly seafarers and their dependents and urged the Union minister to intervene to ensure that pending payments are released.
In a separate notice, the association announced elections for its managing committee for the 2026–2028 term.
The election will be held on April 7 2026. The nomination forms are available at the GSAI office in Madel and the filled forms are to be submitted between March 16 and March 20 at the association’s office. Scrutiny of nominations will take place on March 23, while withdrawals will be accepted on March 24 and 25.
The managing committee will consist of 11 posts including president, vice presidents, secretary, treasurer and executive members.
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