Pratik Bijlani –
A critical meeting was conducted at the Radisson Hotel in Mumbai on August 21st, representing a watershed moment for The Maritime Union of India (MUI), National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI), and ICC Shipping Association. The gathering, which was primarily intended as a networking event, gave a platform for union representatives and members to strengthen ties, setting the way for joint actions that could affect the future of the Indian maritime industry.
In the area of maritime affairs, where powerful players frequently influence legislation and regulations, unions working together can make all the difference. By networking and coordinating their efforts, Indian shipping unions can raise their voices on national and international platforms, campaigning for better working conditions, pay, and benefits for seafarers. This event highlighted the significance of such alliances, with leaders from MUI, NUSI, and ICCSA acknowledging the relevance of collaboration in confronting the problems that lie ahead.
Many industry veterans attended the event, including Capt. Tushar Pradhan, General Secretary, MUI; Mr Milind Kandalgaonkar, General Secretary, NUSI; Mr Louis Gomes, Vice President, NUSI; Mr Sunil Nair, Assistant General Secretary, NUSI; Mr Suresh Solanki, Organising Secretary, NUSI; Mr Gangadharan Vinod, Chairman, ICCSA; Capt Vikas Vij, President, ICCSA; Mr Rakesh Singh, Hon. Secretary, ICCSA; Capt Vivek Bhandarkar, General Secretary, CMMI; Mr Sunil Nair, the event’s master of ceremonies, performed admirably.
The evening began with a poignant opening statement by Mr Milind Kandalgaonkar, General Secretary of NUSI, who reflected on the efforts required to secure an agreement with ICCSA four years ago. He recognised the efforts of everyone engaged in the process and thanked ICCSA, MUI, and all attendees for their attendance. Mr Kandalgaonkar’s remarks set the tone for the evening, emphasising the value of solidarity in the face of tragedy.
Capt. Tushar Pradhan, General Secretary of MUI, extended a hearty welcome to all attendees. In his speech, Capt. Pradhan emphasised the importance of such events in improving union relations. He commented, “Challenges never cease; you solve one problem, and the next hour brings another. But if we work together and put our heads down, I believe we can resolve as much as possible and bring justice to our seafarers and memberlines.” His statements resonated with the crowd, underlining the idea that teamwork is essential for solving the challenges that the marine industry faces.
Mr Gangadharan Vinod, Chairman of ICCSA, praised the good partnerships between unions and ship owners. He emphasised the unique and mutually beneficial nature of these relationships, stating, “I would say that this is a very unique relationship, but a very symbiotic relationship which is much needed, and I don’t think that there are many other forums which can bolster such kind of an engagement where the needs of the owners are also met by the needs of the unions.” His statements emphasised the significance of preserving these links to safeguard the safety of seafarers.
Capt Vikas Vij, President of ICCSA, also spoke at the event, recognising it as a rare chance to bring together owners and unions for the common goal of safeguarding and promoting seafarers. He congratulated the organisers and guests, emphasising the importance of strong links to protect the safety of individuals at sea.
The event continued with informative talks from NUSI and MUI. NUSI representatives demonstrated several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of seafarers, such as free and subsidised courses, while MUI showed a movie on its history and progress since its inception in 1939. The talks emphasised the unions’ dedication to improving the rights of Indian seafarers and their ongoing efforts to conform with international norms.
In an ever-changing marine business, collaboration across unions has never been more important. This event illustrated how MUI, NUSI, and ICCSA can work together to create a more secure and prosperous future for Indian seafarers, protecting their rights and making their voices heard on a worldwide scale.
Marex Media