Page 19 - Navik Jeevan_Ebook

A review of related literature was done to analyse previous findings in the field, identify research
gaps and strengthen the need for the study. The literature review comprised various areas of
the life of a seafarer; such as:

• The relevance of maritime education and training at the secondary level

• The motivations and expectations of students pursuing maritime education

• Maritime education in India

• Training effectiveness in the maritime transportation sector

• Factors affecting female students’ choice of maritime majors

• Seafarers’ Quality of Life: organisational culture, self-efficacy and perceived fatigue

The Social Fabric of India

One’s family is of enormous importance for Indians and is a dominant institution in an individual’s
life. It is not uncommon for three or more generations to be living together under one roof,
showing just how important family life is in the country. Such a joint- family structure is more
often than not seen to have a positive impact on the holistic development of the family members.

Generally, in India, the elderly are obeyed, revered and considered fountains of knowledge and
wisdom. Old age is expected to be a time of relaxation and solitude, where they no longer have
to worry about running the household or finances. In most cases, the elderly will live with and
care for their grandchildren and will generally be consulted regarding essential aspects of life.
It is not difficult to imagine that a seafarer, leaving home for several months, is reasonably well
assured that all members of his/her joint-family will have each other to depend on in his/her
absence.

Due to western influence in the country, younger generations are increasingly turning away
from the joint family structure. While the family is still necessary, the geographical proximity
and hierarchal authority are not as important to some families as it once was. However, frequent
visits are still encouraged, and because of this, families are still seen to be as close as under
the traditional joint family structure. Due to an increasing number of nuclear families (which an
expatriate family would be considered), this new structure is beginning to be preferred as a way
of family life in modern Indian culture.

Seafarers are not an exception to this culture and while this career option is attractive for
bringing up the financial condition of the family to a better level, family members become
emotional when their child is going away for a better future and better earning option in the
shipping world.

The general perception about the merchant navy is that life at sea is lonely and takes a toll on
one’s social life; some prefer it, and some don’t. With the amount of work and lack of free time
to pursue social interests, ship’s life can get quite hard for a person. Modern ships have internet
and satellite phones which virtually reduce the distance from friends and family; however, it is
no replacement for the usual social life onshore, and more than that, the work leaves little or
no room to engage in long conversations over the phone. Following is a review of the research
done on various aspects of the life of seafarers.

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