Pratik Bijlani –
The Bhartiya Navik Sena Union (BNSU) recently orchestrated a grand felicitation ceremony at the esteemed The Club, Mumbai, dedicated to acknowledging remarkable contributions within the maritime industry. This event not only underscored BNSU’s unwavering commitment to honoring excellence but also showcased its steadfast support for the advancement of women seafarers.
Central to the ceremony were the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Awards, bestowed upon individuals whose significant impacts have left an indelible mark on the maritime sector. Simultaneously, the Woman Seafarers Supporters Award celebrated the tireless efforts of those who have fervently advocated for gender equality and empowerment within the maritime realm.
Distinguished guests, including Shri Narayan Rao Rane Union for MSME (Minister Micro Small Medium Enterprise) and also Chief Advisor of BNSU, Mr. B.S. Teeka Managing Director of Executive Ship Management P.L. Singapore, and Captain Naren Bhat Managing Director from Suntech Ship Management Pvt. Ltd., graced the occasion as chief guests. Their heartfelt speeches resonated with appreciation for the event organizers’ dedication to recognizing talent and fostering a culture of excellence within the maritime community.
BNSU’s deep-rooted association with the Merchant Navy reflects its staunch advocacy for the rights and welfare of maritime workers. BNSU was established in June 2000 by Mr Ravindra Baing along with Mr Suresh Salaskar General Secretary and Mr Nandkumar Baing, Secretary, the union emerged as a beacon of hope in response to injustices faced by seafarers. Over the past 24 years, BNSU has been instrumental in facilitating employment opportunities for over 50,000 individuals and guiding and training approximately 25,000 aspiring seafarers.
The felicitation ceremony served as a pivotal platform to spotlight the exceptional achievements of individuals across various sectors of the maritime industry, including shipping, ports and maritime services. It underscored the pivotal role played by dedicated professionals in propelling innovation and progress within the maritime domain.
Of notable significance was the Woman Seafarers Supporters Award, which epitomized BNSU’s steadfast commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in the maritime sector. By honoring individuals who advocate for the advancement of women in maritime careers, BNSU reaffirmed its pledge to nurturing a supportive and empowering environment for all seafarers.
In essence, the BNSU felicitation ceremony served as a poignant testament to the union’s unwavering dedication to promoting excellence, inclusivity, and progress within the maritime industry. As the maritime community continues to evolve, initiatives like these remain pivotal in recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of its members.
Marex Media
List of Awardees for Lifetime Achievement
1 Capt Bhide – Teekay Shipping
2 Capt Bomey – P&O Cruises
3 Capt Suryakant Sawant – Wallem shipping
4 Capt Ashok Batura – Sinoda Shipping Singapore
5 Capt Prashant Rangnekar – Fleet Management
6 Capt Vipin Talwar – OSM Ship Management
7 Capt Toscano – World Tanker Management Pte Ltd
8 Capt Sanjeev Vadhavkar – Riomarr Shipping Pvt Ltd
9 Capt. Ajay D’costa – Great Eastern Shipping
10 Capt Rattu – Torm Shipping
11 Capt Amar – K-line Marine
12 Capt Bhasin – Eastern pacific shipping
List of Awardees for woman seafarer’s advocacy
1 Capt Maneesh Pradhan – Synergy group
2 Capt Ashutosh Apandkar – TS Rahaman institute
3 Capt Anil Arora – Executive shipping