Pratik Bijlani –
On May 9, the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) celebrated Founder Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang Day at the Indian Sailors Home Society in Mumbai with great enthusiasm and reverence. This commemorative event brought together luminaries from the maritime industry to honour the extraordinary legacy of Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang, whose vision and determination laid the foundation for the Indian seafarer’s movement. Presided over by NUSI President, Advocate Premanand Salgaonkar, the occasion also saw the presence of senior executives, including Mr Sunil Nair, Mr Suresh Solanki, Mr Louis Gomes, and Mr Sunder Pillai, alongside other union dignitaries.
Mr Milind Kandalgaonkar, speaking at the event, underscored the importance of preserving NUSI’s legacy. “Today we remember with pride the great legacy of our beloved NUSI,” he declared, adding, “This day is not just a celebration of our past but also a celebration of our future.” His inspiring words highlighted the enduring relevance of NUSI’s mission in shaping the welfare of Indian seafarers and their families. Mr Kandalgaonkar also extended a warm welcome to Chief Guest, Ms Sai Tamhankar, emphasizing her deep-rooted connection to the maritime community.
The event featured heartfelt tributes and insightful addresses by industry leaders. Shri Chitta Dash, Advisor to the Indian National Shipowners Association (INSA), emphasized the union’s commitment to safety, stating, “Safety is like our motto, it’s in our blood, in our culture.” Capt. Shiv Halbe, CEO of the Maritime Association of Shipowners, Shipmanagers & Agents (MASSA), reiterated the need for safe practices both on and off ships, remarking, “Safety is not just about working on a ship. Your behaviour should also be safe. Let’s not be brave when it is not necessary to be brave.” Capt. Rajesh Tandon CEO of FOSMA, Mr Rakesh Singh of ICCSA, and Capt. Tushar Pradhan of MUI also provided valuable insights on safety, skill development, and career advancement for seafarers.
Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Mr Rustom Cassinath (FOSMA), Capt. Ashok Kumar (INSA), and Shri T.V. Krishnan (MASSA) for their lasting contributions to the maritime sector. The distribution of financial assistance cheques for medical and educational needs further demonstrated NUSI’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of seafarers and their families.
Ms Tamhankar, visibly moved by the heartfelt tributes, expressed her admiration for the seafaring community, underscoring the deep connection shared by maritime families. Her address resonated with the audience, highlighting the resilience and unity of seafarers.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Alison Fernandes, followed by an entertainment program and dinner that fostered camaraderie and reflection among attendees. Earlier in the day, an awareness program by the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) shed light on vital welfare schemes available to seafarers, further solidifying NUSI’s role as a pillar of support for the maritime community.
This year’s Founder’s Day celebration stood as a powerful homage to Shri Mohamed Ebrahim Serang, encapsulating the spirit of solidarity, service, and resilience that continues to define the seafaring profession.
Marex Media