Chirag Bahri

Chirag spearheads the operation and development of ISWAN's international initiatives, working closely with regional stakeholders to establish vital support systems for seafarers and their families in times of need. Chirag began his career at sea in 2004, following his graduation as a Marine Engineer. Over the years, he climbed the ranks and attained the Chief Engineer's License. Chirag holds an MBA (Maritime Business Management) with Merit from Middlesex University, UK, and is a fellow and a Governing Council Member of the Institute of Marine Engineers (India). Chirag was held hostage by Somali pirates on a hijacked vessel in 2010 and has since devoted his life to assisting seafarers and their families affected by piracy and other challenges including abandonment, criminalisation and recruitment scams. He has been bestowed with national and international awards towards his dedication towards improving welfare and wellbeing initiatives for seafarers and their families.