Transforming Waves: The Purpose Behind Sagar Mein Samman
Sagar Mein Samman: India’s Initiative for Women in Maritime Sector: The Government of India has taken a bold step to transform the gender landscape of the maritime sector through the Sagar Mein Samman initiative. Launched by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal during the International Day for Women in Maritime, this scheme seeks to enhance women’s participation at every level—from dock operations to boardroom leadership. The initiative is rooted in the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), ensuring that women are not just present, but also empowered in India’s maritime growth.
Women Seafarers on the Rise: A Positive Trajectory
The maritime workforce has traditionally been male-dominated, but the tides are turning. In 2014, there were only 341 women seafarers in India. By 2024, this number had jumped to 2,557, representing a 649% increase. During this decade, the government also provided financial assistance to nearly 3,000 women pursuing careers at sea. These numbers reflect a strategic push to dismantle entry barriers for women and to promote maritime careers as viable options for girls and young professionals.
What Makes This Policy Unique?
Sagar Mein Samman is more than a symbolic gesture. It includes planning, training, research, and community outreach to make systemic changes. Shipping companies will be given incentives to hire women, while scholarships will support their training in technical maritime roles. The initiative also promotes leadership training so women are prepared not only for operational roles but also for decision-making positions in ports, shipping lines, and logistics.
A strong component of the initiative is safety—ensuring that work environments are free of gender bias and harassment. Workshops and mentorship programs are part of the ecosystem being created under this initiative.
Role Models and Road Ahead
As part of the launch, ten outstanding women in maritime were honoured, highlighting success stories that can inspire a new generation. These role models exemplify how breaking gender stereotypes in sectors like shipping and navigation can lead to national progress.
Looking ahead, the initiative aims for 12% female participation in technical maritime roles by 2030. This aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5 – Gender Equality) and reflects India’s broader commitment to building inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
| Feature | Details |
| Initiative Name | Sagar Mein Samman |
| Launched By | Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal |
| Launch Occasion | International Day for Women in Maritime |
| Target Female Representation | 12% by 2030 in technical maritime roles |
| Rise in Women Seafarers (2014–2024) | From 341 to 2,557 (649% increase) |
| Financial Aid Beneficiaries | Nearly 3,000 women |
| Global Alignment | International Maritime Organisation (IMO) |
| National Policy Focus | Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) |
