What's New
1) SWFS Welfare Brochure – 2026 now available for download..
2) Report on Benchmarking of Indian Seafarer Welfare Practices and Recommendations for Strengthening SWFS Welfare Schemes published.
3) Rationalisation and Consolidation of Welfare Schemes administered by SWFS issued under DGS Circular No. 39 of 2026.
1) SWFS Welfare Brochure – 2026 now available for download..
2) Report on Benchmarking of Indian Seafarer Welfare Practices and Recommendations for Strengthening SWFS Welfare Schemes published.
3) Rationalisation and Consolidation of Welfare Schemes administered by SWFS issued under DGS Circular No. 39 of 2026.
1) SWFS Welfare Brochure – 2026 now available for download..
2) Report on Benchmarking of Indian Seafarer Welfare Practices and Recommendations for Strengthening SWFS Welfare Schemes published.
3) Rationalisation and Consolidation of Welfare Schemes administered by SWFS issued under DGS Circular No. 39 of 2026.
3,32,000+
Active Seafarer
2096+
Total Shipping Companies
982+
Total RPSL Agencies
12
Total Active Schemes
19452+
Total Applications Received
₹ 47,93,79,491+
Total Amount disbursed
SEAFARER’S WELFARE FUND SOCIETY
The Seafarers' Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Government of India. It is committed to the welfare and well-being of Indian seafarers and their families.
Provides financial assistance and welfare benefits to eligible Indian seafarers'
Administers welfare schemes and gratuity benefits for eligible Indian seafarers'
Our Services
Avail the benefits of SWFS's welfare schemes, services, and resources for Indian seafarers' and their families
Welfare Fund Administration
Administration of welfare schemes and benefits for eligible Indian seafarers' and their families.
Welfare Contribution
Management of welfare fund contributions received for eligible seafarers'
Gratuity Fund Administration
Administration of gratuity-related benefits and eligible payments to seafarers'
Grievance
Receives and facilitates resolution of grievances related to SWFS services and welfare benefits.
Sources of Funding
Since its inception, the Central Government has not provided direct financial assistance to SWFS. Instead, funding is sourced from:
Welfare Contributions
- Indian shipping companies contribute welfare funds for rating seafarers under the National Maritime Board (NMB) Agreement, 1983.
- Recruitment & Placement Services License (RPSL) Companies contribute welfare funds for seafarers employed on foreign flag vessels (from 01.04.2014 onwards).
- The Government of India (GoI) made it mandatory in 2015 for Indian shipping companies to deposit welfare contributions for seafarers on Indian-flagged vessels.
Welfare Levy Fees
- Collected by the Government Shipping Office (GSO) since 1974 and transferred to SWFS.
- Companies deposit ₹500 per seafarer annually.
Investment of Welfare Fund Corpus
- Funds are invested in secure government bonds, fixed deposits, and public sector financial instruments.
- Interest income is utilized for administrative and welfare expenses.
One-Time Financial Assistance for Indian Certificate of Competency (CoC) Recognition and Career Progression Scheme
Launched on 1 January 2026, the scheme aims to provide one-time financial assistance to eligible Indian seafarers for Certificate of Competency (CoC) recognition and career progression.
Financial Information
Details of funds and financial status of SWFS (as on 30.07.2026)
Administration Fund (Corpus Fund)
₹ 42.95 Cr
Welfare Fund (Corpus Fund)
₹ 888.78 Cr
Seafarer's Gratuity Fund (Custodian)
₹ 829.83 Cr
Seafarers Welfare Infrastructure Projects
The Seafarers’ Welfare Infrastructure Initiative creates modern, accessible and sustainable welfare facilities for Indian seafarers, providing safe spaces for rest, recreation, communication and essential support during their time ashore.
News and Events
Explore the latest news, announcements, and events related to SWFS welfare initiatives, maritime welfare, and seafarers' services.
Gallery
Discover the highlights of SWFS programs, initiatives, and events for Indian seafarers'