Lucknow: Seafarers should not be made targets of wars and conflicts as maritime security remains one of the biggest challenges facing the world today, former National Shipping Board member Capt Sanjay Parashar said at a seafarers’ seminar in Gomti Nagar (Lucknow).Addressing the Seafarers Felicitation Seminar organised by VR Maritime, Parashar said those working on ships must be continuously updated about emerging risks and changing circumstances in the maritime sector.Parashar said around 4,500 seafarers are associated with VR Maritime, including nearly 500 from Uttar Pradesh. He said seafarers from the state have carved a niche for themselves abroad through their hard work and professionalism.Highlighting the economic challenges faced by port agents and seafarers, he stressed the need to safeguard their interests and ensure a transparent system. Information about the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) was also shared during the seminar.Parashar said the social and economic security of seafarers’ families deserved equal attention. He also acknowledged the role played by seafarers in ensuring the movement of fuel and essential supplies through maritime routes during challenging situations such as the Hormuz crisis.He added that the role of artificial intelligence in strengthening maritime security is growing, with technology helping improve vessel monitoring, risk assessment and security arrangements.Senior seafarers and experienced maritime professionals were felicitated during the programme. Discussions focused on issues related to seafarers’ experience, safety, employment and welfare.