Context: In an attempt to acknowledge the efforts of women in breaking down the stereotypes in erstwhile male-dominated maritime sector, Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has flagged off an all-women crew onboard Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) vessel MT Swarna Krishna.
Key Points

• The vessel was virtually flagged off by the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister on March 6.
• The Shipping Corporation of India(SCI), as a part of its ongoing Diamond Jubilee celebrations and also to commemorate the International Women’s Day on March 8, 2021.
• This was the first time in the world maritime history that a ship was being sailed by all women officers.

Importance

• The move demonstrated the gradual shift in the perception of seafaring as a male-oriented profession and the principles of Diversity & Inclusion that SCI upholds. 
• SCI has been a pioneer in employing women seafarers onboard its vessels and has implemented various initiatives, including age relaxations and fee concessions to aspiring female cadets through its Maritime Training Institute to promote their integration into the maritime sector.