10/06/2025, 𝓼𝓮𝓪𝓯𝓪𝓻𝓮𝓻'𝓼 𝓾𝓹𝓭𝓪𝓽𝓮 On June 9, 2025, the ITF Inland Navigation Section held its first virtual meeting following the ITF Congress, addressing critical issues raised by global trade unions. The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) highlighted significant challenges facing Indian coastal shipping, particularly due to the Directorate General of Shipping’s Circular 6 of 2023, which reduces the age norms for vessels. The other issue of removal of cabotage, allowing foreign ships with foreign crews to operate freely along the Indian coast. We strongly oppose these proposals, as restricting vessel age directly threatens the livelihoods of thousands of Indian seafarers working on these vessels. FSUI remains committed to protecting the rights and jobs of our seafarers and advocating for fair policies in the maritime sector.