India’s foreign policy must look seaward
The article highlights the critical challenges faced by Indian seafarers globally, particularly in conflict zones and cases of abandonment, due to unclear lines of responsibility and the mobile nature of their work. It emphasizes the need for India's foreign policy to prioritize their safety and welfare. The government's 'Seafarer First' response, including a tracking dashboard and liaison officers, is discussed, alongside calls for a standing maritime consular protocol, enforcement of international conventions like the Maritime Labour Convention, and enhanced international cooperation through bodies like the IMO and ILO with countries like the Philippines and Indonesia.
The article highlights the critical challenges faced by Indian seafarers globally, particularly in conflict zones and cases of abandonment, due to unclear lines of responsibility and the mobile nature of their work. It emphasizes the need for India's foreign policy to prioritize their safety and welfare. The government's 'Seafarer First' response, including a tracking dashboard and liaison officers, is discussed, alongside calls for a standing maritime consular protocol, enforcement of international conventions like the Maritime Labour Convention, and enhanced international cooperation through bodies like the IMO and ILO with countries like the Philippines and Indonesia.
Exam linkage
GS Paper 2: International Relations; Government Policies and Interventions
Syllabus mapping
This topic appears in Mains
Questions on International Relations come up regularly in GS papers. Practice writing an answer — and see exactly what earns marks.
Editorial & Review Process
Every current affairs analysis and practice question on UPSC Practice is researched using authoritative primary sources and reviewed for factual accuracy and syllabus relevance. Read our Editorial Policy.