56. Classification of seafarers
(1)
Notwithstanding anything contained in any other law for the time being in force, the provisions of this Act shall apply to any person employed or engaged as a seafarer.
(2)
The Central Government shall make rules for the classification of seafarers into different categories, the minimum manning scale of seafarers of such categories, and the different scales for different classes of vessels.
(3)
Seafarers shall be deemed to be key workers, for the purposes of facilitation of safe and unhindered movement for embarking or disembarking a vessel, shore leave, and when necessary, for shore-based medical treatment.