The Sailors’ Union of India (SUI-BMS), in collaboration with CV Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, successfully organized an extensive Seafarers Awareness Program on 10th February 2026. The program was specially designed for Maritime Trainees and aspiring seafarers with the objective of providing practical guidance on career opportunities, regulatory compliance, on-board responsibilities, and welfare mechanisms available to Indian seafarers.
The program commenced in a dignified manner with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Chief Guest Capt. Sameer Dhole, Nautical Surveyor-cum-Deputy Director General of Shipping, Government of India. This was followed by the rendering of the National Anthem, setting a patriotic and professional tone for the event.
Capt. C.R. Biswal, Dean – School of Maritime Studies, delivered the welcome speech. Drawing from his long sailing career with the Shipping Corporation of India, he shared real-life experiences from on board merchant vessels. He emphasized the importance of
Strict adherence to SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW and MLC 2016 conventions, Development of safety culture on board,
professional discipline and teamwork, Ethical conduct and leadership qualities of a seafarer.
His address connected academic learning with the realities of shipboard life and motivated students to adopt a responsible approach toward their future profession.
Prof. Basidhar Behera Manjhi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, presented an overview of CV Raman Global University’s maritime education system. He elaborated on the history and growth of the university, modern training infrastructure and simulation facilities, industry-oriented curriculum,
Commitment to producing globally competent Indian seafarers.
He assured that the university would continue to work closely with the Directorate General of Shipping and SUI-BMS for the benefit of students.
The Chief Guest Capt. Sameer Dhole, DDG Shipping, delivered a highly informative and interactive session. He introduced recent welfare policies of the DGS, functioning of the 24x7 helpline for seafarers in distress, new implementations under the Merchant Shipping Act, compliance requirements related to STCW, MLC and RPSL rules. He advised trainees to remain updated through official DGS circulars and to follow only authorized recruitment channels. His practical insights on examinations, certification, and career progression were greatly appreciated by the students.
Mr. R.P. Veettil, National President, SUI-BMS, he addressed the gathering as Guest of Honour. He clearly guided the trainees on steps to be taken after completion of maritime courses, how to verify genuine shipping companies through the DGS website,
Legal rights of seafarers under Indian and international laws,
Role of SUI-BMS in protecting seafarers during distress situations. He strongly cautioned students not to fall prey to illegal agents, fake job promises, and unauthorized recruitment agencies, which have ruined many young careers. He assured that SUI-BMS stands with every Indian seafarer for justice and dignity.
Participation of faculty
faculty members of CV Raman Global University actively participated and delivered inputs on: Importance of STCW competency courses, awareness on MLC & ILO conventions,
Medical standards, documentation, and shipboard ethics. Their interaction helped bridge the gap between academic training and industry expectations.
Mr. Pradeep Singh, General Secretary, SUI-BMS, highlighted the decade-long journey of the union. He narrated major achievements such as: stopping the illegal 5% wage deduction under the NMB Agreement,
Intervention in INDoS blocking and yellow fever vaccination issues, Continuous fight against corruption and exploitation in recruitment, Petition for wage revision and welfare of Indian seafarers. His speech enlightened students about the importance of collective representation and unity among seafarers.
A vibrant group discussion and question-answer session followed, where students raised queries on-board life and challenges, placement procedures,
certification issues,
grievance redressal mechanisms.
Officials from DGS, SUI-BMS leaders, and university faculty jointly responded, making the session highly productive.
The program concluded with the vote of thanks, followed by the National Anthem & high tea. Participants expressed gratitude to SUI-BMS and the university for organizing such a meaningful event.
Outcome of the Program:
strengthened awareness about statutory maritime regulations
encouraged safe, legal and ethical recruitment practices
built confidence among trainees regarding career planning
enhanced coordination between DGS, academia and Sailors Union of India. The Seafarers Awareness Program proved to be a landmark initiative in guiding the next generation of Indian seafarers toward a secure, disciplined and dignified maritime career.
Commander Ali's Academy of Merchant Navy, Hyderabad
The Uttar Pradesh Chapter of the Sailors' Union of India (SUI) proudly celebrated the successful completion of Operation Sindoor under the banner of "Tiranga Yatra", reaffirming our unwavering solidarity with the Indian Armed Forces.
This symbolic yatra, held in the spirit of patriotism, sent a powerful message of unity, peace, and national pride. It highlighted our collective resolve that terrorism has no place in India or anywhere in the world. We stand for humanity, harmony, and the dignity of every citizen.
Congratulations to all participants and supporters who made this movement a resounding success. Let us continue to raise the tricolor high and serve the nation with honor and courage.
The Sailors' Union of India (SUI-BMS) celebrated its 10th Anniversary alongside the 3rd Triennial National Conference and Seafarers Awareness Programme on 19th April 2025 at Varkhari Bhavan, Sector-4, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai. The grand event witnessed the participation of over 500 delegates, including seafarers, RPSL owners, maritime trainers, logistics experts, politicians, and DGS-approved medical professionals.
The conference was inaugurated by Shri P.C. Meena, Deputy Director General of Shipping, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, who lit the ceremonial lamp and delivered the keynote address.
Shri Pradeep Singh, General Secretary of the Sailors' Union of India, formally welcomed all dignitaries, guests, and delegates.
Shri R.P. Veettil, Founder and President of SUI, in his address, reflected on the journey of the Sailors' Union of India, from its inception in 2014 to its present position as a strong voice for Indian seafarers. He highlighted the Union’s efforts in fighting exploitation, exposing scams, resisting unjust salary deductions, and pushing for fair wages and proper representation.
62nd National Maritime Day Celebration, Wreath laying Ceremony is done by Smt. Sujata Saunik, I.A.S, Chief Secretary , Govt of Maharashtra on 05/04/2025, at the Indian Sailors Home Society ( ISHS) , Mumbai
The World' Marirtme Day Celebration -2024 has been celebrated under the aegis of Director General of Shipping & National Maritime Day Celebration (NMDC) in MTIs auditorium, Powai today. SUI team actively participated in the event..
SUI delegates are:
Shri. RP Veettil, National President, Shri. Jayantilal Tandel Treasurer, Shri. Pranesh S Pawar, Member, Shri. Pradip Singh, General Secretary, Shri. Santosh More, Secretary, Shri. Arundas OS, Jt. General Secretary, Shri. Anil Omman, Secretary.
The event was inaugurated by Shri. Shyam Jagannathan I.A.S, Director General of Shipping, Govt of India.
"स्वच्छता ही सेवा" an event conducted by #National Maritime Day Celebration ( c) DGS , in association with the #Divyaj foundation at Versova @ a glance...
The 61st National Maritime Day Celebration was celebrated with different events. This year SUI participated in several events in different places and Sailors Union of India, West Bengal State won the Trophy in football tournament conducted by POMMD, Kolkota in Indian Maritime University Ground.
SAILORS' UNION OF INDIA SUI-BMS, Seafarers Awareness Conference was inaugurated by Shri. Shantanu Thakur ji Hon'ble State Minister for Ports Shipping Waterways Govt of India at Press Club Kolkota today. Shri. RP Veettil, National President, Shri Pradeep Singh, All India General Secretary, Shri. Swaroop Roy, General Secretary, Shri. Satender Kumar President, Shri. Ripon Tarafdar, Asst. General Secretary, SUI West Bengal State, Shri. Pradip Bijoli, President, Ports & Docks Mazdoor Maha Sangh, & President, West Bengal BMS, Shri. Sujeet Das, Surveyor & Deputy Director General of Shipping ( POMMD) , Shri. Bijendra Chaubey, Deputy Shipping Master, Shipping Office Kolkota, and also, from Seafarers, Retired Seafarers, Maritime Training Institutes, Shipping Companies, DGS Approved Medical delegates, different Media persons attended. Two submissions are being made to the Minister, One for Retired Seafarers and International Wages for Indian Seafarers is the other.
Inaugurated by , Shri. Shripad Naik ji Hon'ble Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, Waterways, and Tourism Govt of India. (01-07-2023)
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