NUSI Founder Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang Day Celebrations: Honoring the legacy of a Great Leader

On 9th May 2024, the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) celebrated the Founder Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang Day with great passion under the theme "Seafarers Connect – Hum Saath Saath Hai". The event, graced by eminent personalities from the shipping fraternity, aimed to honour the remarkable contributions of Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang to the Indian seafarers' community.

The event was presided over by NUSI President Adv. Premanand Salgaonkar, the event commenced with a tribute to Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang’s legacy, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping the seafaring landscape in India.

Capt. (Dr.) Daniel Joseph, Dy. Director General of Shipping, emphasized the importance of seafarers' mental well-being, underscoring the need for strong support systems. Seafarers Connect – Hum Saath Saath Hai fosters the connections, provides a support network, and addresses key issues concerning the seafaring community who are the backbone of the maritime industry.

Shri Anil Devli, Chief Executive Officer of Indian National ship owners’ Association (INSA) shed light on the indispensable role of seafarers in India's economy, commending NUSI's welfare initiatives for their unwavering support to seafarers and their families. Shri Vineet Gupta, Director of the Maritime Association of Shipowners’ Shipmanagers’ and Agents (MASSA), reiterated the significance of unions in safeguarding workers' rights, while Varuna Awardee Capt. Rajesh Tandon, Chief Executive Officer of the Foreign Owners Representatives and Ship Managers Association (FOSMA) shared his enriching experiences and spoke about the launch of a new fitter training course shortly in partnership with NUSI for the benefit of seafarers.

Capt. Tushar Pradhan, General Secretary, of The Maritime Union of India (MUI) highlighted the challenges faced by seafarers and the concerted efforts of NUSI and MUI in addressing these issues.

Shri Milind Kandalgaonkar, General Secretary-cum-Treasurer of NUSI elaborated on NUSI's welfare initiatives including the announcement of the permanence of the "NUSI Skills Support" scheme due to the overwhelming response. He also mentioned the expansion of the "NUSI Founder Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang Food Subsidy" program to ensure non-vegetarian meals for seafarers at the Indian Sailors Home Society (ISHS). Moreover, NUSI's commitment towards welfare was underlined through the adoption of 100 widows of seafarers, guaranteeing lifetime financial assistance for those who lost their spouses during the COVID crisis.

The event also saw the distribution of welfare financial assistance to seafarers and their families, reaffirming NUSI's commitment to their well-being. Ms. Harshada Bhamre, NUSI Organizer and ITF Inspector, extended a vote of thanks, culminating in an evening of brotherhood and solidarity. The event was followed by dinner, providing an opportunity for the guests to network and socialize.

The celebration served as a poignant tribute to Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang, fondly remembered as the "Father of Indian Seafarers Movement", incorporate the spirit of unity and resilience within the seafaring community.