By Capt Shiv Halbe 

MASSA is a transformation of the old ‘avatar’, known as Owners Agents Committee Crews (OACC), which was created post independence, to be a facilitator for employment of Indian seafarers (mainly ratings) on the Indian and foreign flag ships, known as ‘Articled Crew’.
Pursuant to the release of the COMET report in 1992, the ‘manning’ scenario in India went through a sea change. It was no more employment centric, but creation of ‘trained’ manpower to service the global shipping industry. Thus, OACC transformed into MASSA and the erstwhile log was launched signifying the global outreach of the Indian seafarer.
After 3 decades, the requirements of the Maritime world have now changed significantly with focus on control of Green House Gas emissions, protecting the Maritime environment, Global warming etc, thus requiring different skill sets from the seafarers who operate the modern ships. The ship sizes have changed dramatically, as well as the equipment n board. Ships’ bridges now look like consoles from Star Wars! Seafarers rights and mental health is at the forefront, as well as gender diversity- something that was alien just a decade ago.
These were the thoughts which provoked the new logo which encapsulates focus on inclusivity, maritime education and training, protection of environment (green), faith and trust, all anchored in legacy. 
(The author of this article is the CEO of  MASSA : Maritime Association of Shipowners Shipmanagers and Agents)