Pratik Bijlani –
The Maritime Union of India (MUI), the country’s oldest union representing Indian Merchant Navy officers, celebrated its Foundation Day in a grand and meaningful manner on 4th December at Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai. Founded on 3 December 1939 and affiliated with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), London, MUI has for over eight decades stood as a steadfast guardian of the dignity, rights, wages, working conditions and professional values of Indian seafarers. The celebration brought together eminent leaders, policymakers and stalwarts of the maritime industry to honour the Union’s rich legacy and reaffirm its continued relevance in a rapidly evolving global shipping landscape.
The event was attended by the Chief Guests, Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping, and Shri Sameer Kumar Khare, Chairperson, National Shipping Board (NSB), along with leading industry personalities Capt Rakesh Singh, President, ICCSA; Mr Deepak Shetty, Former Director General of Shipping; Capt Rajesh Tandon, CEO, FOSMA; Mr Milind Kandalgaonkar, General Secretary, NUSI; Capt Philip Matthews, Director of SIMTF; and Mr Steve Trowsdale, Inspectorate Coordinator at ITF, last but not the least Capt. Savio Ramos , General Secretary, MUI . The evening was smoothly anchored by Dr Deepti Mankad, Founder, Mindspeak, and Head of MUI’s Women’s Wing who also delivered the welcome address, highlighting MUI’s proud heritage and its unwavering role in protecting Indian seafarers across generations.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Jagannathan praised MUI’s pivotal contribution to India’s seafaring ecosystem and its historic role in securing welfare through collective bargaining and welfare infrastructure. He spoke on national initiatives such as Sagar Mein Yog and Sagar Mein Samman, showcased at the International Maritime Organization as India’s structured contribution to seafarer well-being. Emphasising gender inclusion, digital transformation and future-ready reforms, he outlined major developments including automated competency certification and the upcoming e-Samudra single-window platform for maritime services. Mr Jagannathan said this during his speech “The Maritime Union of India stands at the very heart of India’s seafaring ecosystem, carrying the immense responsibility of safeguarding welfare, dignity and progress for every Indian sailor who keeps our nation’s maritime flag flying high across the world.”
Mr Khare highlighted the growing global importance of Indian seafarers and MUI’s foundational role in protecting their rights while maintaining industrial harmony. He paid tribute to Indian mariners for their extraordinary service during the COVID-19 pandemic and spoke about NSB’s focus on improving working conditions, documentation systems, mental health support, employment opportunities, women’s participation, green shipping and advanced training for new technologies. Mr Khare said “MUI has been the unwavering backbone of our seafaring community—protecting rights, fostering harmony and ensuring that the voice of Indian seafarers remains strong and respected as our nation moves toward becoming a global maritime powerhouse.”
Capt Ramos warmly welcomed all dignitaries and members, describing the Foundation Day as a symbol of unity, service and continued commitment to Indian seafarers. He acknowledged the efforts of MUI’s staff in supporting seafarers during emergencies and welfare matters, and emphasised the need for deeper outreach and awareness programmes, particularly in rural regions, to guide the next generation of maritime professionals.
A key highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the new logo of the MUI’s Women’s Wing by the dignitaries, reinforcing the Union’s growing emphasis on inclusivity and women’s participation in maritime careers. The celebration concluded with cocktails and dinner, offering an opportunity for fellowship, reflection and renewed commitment to the welfare and advancement of Indian seafarers.
Marex Media