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.