National Union of Seafarers of India - NUSI

30/09/2025

Dear Seafarers,

We are glad to inform you that we have started receiving the entries for the group dance competition. However, we request that all seafarers record a choreographed dance video with the proper background song or music and avoid recording and sending dance practice sessions with background chorus singing or disturbance.

Let your performance be a reflection of your passion, energy, and team spirit. Dance is not just movement—it is an expression of joy, unity, and creativity. We are confident that your dedication will shine through every step, making the competition a celebration of talent and togetherness.

We are eagerly awaiting your well-performed dance videos.

📌 Submission Deadline: 30th October 2025
📌 Category: Group (Minimum 3 members)
📌 Format: MP4 | Duration 3–5 mins

Register now at: www.nusi.org.in (Forms Section) or Click the link https://forms.gle/654SQhGXS4oXyMEK6

Milind Kandalgaonkar

25/09/2025

Celebrating Talent at Sea: Indian Seafarers Wins
ITF Seafarers' Trust Life at Sea Photography Competition 2025

Today, on World Maritime Day, ITF Seafarers’ Trust proudly announced the winner of the Sixth Life at Sea Photography Competition 2025. The competition received an overwhelming response from seafarers globally, with over a thousand submissions showcasing breathtaking images that highlighted the unique life at sea.

Since its inception in 2020, the ITF Seafarers’ Trust Life at Sea photography competition has provided seafarers with a platform to share their unique perspectives with the world. Through exhibitions and presentations, the competition has highlighted the challenges, beauty, and stories of life at sea, bringing seafarers’ voices to a wider audience.

This year’s entries reflected a noticeable improvement in quality, making the judges' task all the more difficult. The panel included Mr. Jericho Mifania, a seafarer and passionate photographer from the Philippines who won the 2024 Trust Photo Competition; Mr. Richard Meade, Editor-in-Chief of Lloyd’s List and a veteran journalist; Ms. Natasha Brown, Head of the IMO Outreach and Communications Office; and Mr. Christian Cravo, an internationally acclaimed photographer.

After a rigorous selection process, Mr. Parwaz Mukadam emerged as the grand winner, securing the first prize of £1,000 (GBP), equivalent to INR 1,19,694/-. His winning photograph, titled ‘When Nature takes command”. He said of the image: "In the vastness of the ocean, danger can rise without warning. A waterspout forms ahead, reminding us no matter the size of the ship, nature always has the final say."

Mr. Mukadam, an Ordinary Seaman (OS) with Synergy Marine Group, is a proud member of the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI). His passion for photography, which he has nurtured alongside his seafaring career, shines through in his work.

In a heartwarming moment, Mr. Mukadam, met with NUSI General Secretary-cum-Treasurer, Mr. Milind Kandalgaonkar, and discussed his journey in photography. For the past ten years, Mr. Parwaz has balanced his career at sea with a love for capturing life through the lens. Inspired by his friends who were professional photographers, he took up the art form and, over time, developed his own unique creative vision. Driven by a passion for photography and video editing, he has honed his skills over time, turning his passion into his "creative escape."

Seafaring is no easy profession, filled with challenges and responsibilities. Yet, it’s through these challenges that seafarers like Mr. Mukadam find moments of inspiration that fuel their creative passions. His story stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and dedication that define the global seafaring community.

Mr. Parwaz Mukadam’s achievement brings immense pride not only to the Indian maritime community but to all seafarers who embody the spirit of innovation and creativity. His recognition highlights the diverse talents that seafarers possess, proving that even amidst the demanding realities of life at sea, there is always room for personal expression and growth.

Congratulations to Mr. Parwaz Mukadam for making both the Indian seafaring fraternity and the nation incredibly proud with his extraordinary talent and achievement!

Milind Kandalgaonkar

19/09/2025

Golden Achiever Award

Milind Kandalgaonkar

18/09/2025

Caring for Our Seafarers: Welfare Schemes by SWFS

The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has issued Circular No. 39 of 2025 highlighting the various welfare schemes administered by the Seafarers’ Welfare Fund Society (SWFS). These schemes are designed to support Indian seafarers and their families at different stages of life and during times of need.

Key Schemes at a Glance

1.⁠ ⁠Survivor Benefit Scheme (SBS)
Financial assistance to the nominee of a seafarer who passes away within 24 months of sign-off.
Support amount: up to ₹4,00,000.

2.⁠ ⁠Invalidity Benefit Scheme (IBS)
For seafarers declared permanently unfit due to injury.
Support amount: up to ₹6,00,000.

3.⁠ ⁠Family Benefit Welfare Scheme (FBWS)
Assistance for children of seafarers on completing pre-sea training or postgraduate studies.
Support amount: ₹25,000–₹50,000.

4.⁠ ⁠Maternity Benefit Scheme (MBS)
Financial support for Indian women seafarers during maternity (limited to two deliveries).
Support amount: ₹25,000.

5.⁠ ⁠Old Age Benefit Scheme (OABS)
One-time assistance when a seafarer attains 65 years of age (with minimum service conditions).
Support amount: ₹50,000.

6.⁠ ⁠Death on Board Benefit Scheme (DBBS)
For cases of death or presumed death occurring while on duty onboard.
Support amount: ₹2,00,000.

7.⁠ ⁠Ex-Gratia Support Benefit Scheme (ESBS)
Monthly support for families of abandoned/stranded seafarers (up to 12 months).
Support amount: ₹10,000 per month.

8.⁠ ⁠Award to Meritorious Child of Seafarers (AMCS)
Recognition for children of seafarers topping university-level final degree/postgraduate exams.
Award: ₹25,000.

How to Apply

Application forms are available on the DG Shipping website or from the SWFS office at Nau Bhavan, Ballard Estate, Mumbai.

Deadlines vary by scheme (ranging from 2 months to 3 years depending on the benefit).

Beneficiaries should keep their contact and banking details updated with SWFS.
Contact SWFS

📍 Nau Bhavan, Ground Floor, R. K. Marg, Ballard Estate, Mumbai – 400 001
📞 022-20826980 / 22626981
📧 swfs1965@gmail.com | swfs.dgs@govcontractor.in
Seafarers are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply on time. These schemes are meant to ensure that our maritime community and their families receive support when it matters most.

Milind Kandalgaonkar


Directorate General of Shipping, India

16/09/2025

An unforgettable and inspiring conversation with Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS – Director General of Shipping.

⚓ Dear Indian seafarers, Kathan – Communicating Stories is your platform, created to bring forth the stories that inspire, motivate, and unite us.

🙏 We appeal to you to Like, Share & Subscribe so that, together, we can carry these voices across oceans and celebrate the unity and pride of Indian seafarers everywhere.

https://youtu.be/SQAFR1j-qK0

Milind Kandalgaonkar

Directorate General of Shipping, India

From a humble beginning to leading some of India’s most critical administrative divisions, Mr. Shyam Jagannathan IAS is a beacon of perseverance, service, an...

13/09/2025

Bro. Madhu Pillai, Petty Officer of DCI and Golden Member of NUSI, along with Bro. Vinay Pai, NUSI Branch Representative, visited DCI vessels DR-8 and DR-20.

They briefed our DCI brothers about the ongoing issue of outsourcing of manning and also explained various NUSI welfare initiatives.

Brothers, this is the time to stand together in unity and solidarity. ✊

Milind Kandalgaonkar

National Union of Seafarers of India - NUSI

12/09/2025

Dear Seafarers,

As part of the upcoming “Seafarers Unity Day” celebrations on 6th November, 2025 NUSI is delighted to announce a “Group Dance Competition” for all ranks of Indian seafarers on-board ships. This is your opportunity to showcase hidden talents, teamwork, creativity and camaraderie while at sea!

📌 Submission Deadline: 15th October 2025
📌 Category: Group (Minimum 5 members)
📌 Format: MP4 | Duration 3–5 mins

The winners will be awarded on Seafarers Unity Day – 6th November, 2025

🔹 Prizes:
🥇 1st Prize – 1500 USD
🥈 2nd Prize – 900 USD
🥉 3rd Prize – 600 USD

Let’s make the stage come alive with your moves, creativity, and unity at sea! 🌊💫

👉 Register now at: www.nusi.org.in (Forms Section) or scan the QR code on the poster.

Stage is Yours – Show Your Rhythm, Your Moves, Your Unity! 🎶

In Solidarity,
Milind Kandalgaonkar
General Secretary-cum-Treasurer

ITF Seafarers Trust

10/09/2025

Standing Strong with Seafarers 🌊⚓

National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) once again stood firmly by the side of a seafarer in need, ensuring that his rights and dignity were protected.

In November 2024, Mr. Ashok Solanki, serving onboard MT Mersini (IMO No: 9405899) of World Tankers, vessel covered under the NUSI CBA, was compelled to sign off on medical grounds. The sudden turn of events left him and his family facing deep uncertainty, as his health condition restricted him from continuing his seafaring duties.

NUSI immediately stepped forward with full support. With persistence and commitment, the union took up Mr. Solanki’s case, guiding him through the challenging process of securing his rightful compensation. Through dedicated follow-ups with the P&I Club, NUSI ensured that Mr. Solanki received his Medical Disability Compensation, bringing much-needed relief and security to him and his loved ones.

The mission of NUSI, has always been the welfare and dignity of seafarers. Every effort we make is to ensure that no seafarer ever stands alone, whether at sea or on shore.

🌊 To every seafarer and family — you are never alone.

💙 Your safety, your rights, and your future will always be our priority.

04/09/2025

Circular No. 14 of 2025 4th September, 2025

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Sailing through 75 Years: DG Shipping's Platinum Jubilee Celebration

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration. (DGMA), has completed a remarkable journey of 75 years of dedicated service to the nation’s maritime sector. To commemorate this platinum milestone, a spectacular celebration was hosted on 4th September, 2025, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the maritime spectrum. The evening was not only a tribute to the past but also a vision for the future of India’s maritime excellence.

Journey Anchored in Legacy

The celebrations began with the warm welcome of guests, followed by a ceremonial opening that set a dignified tone. Inspiring inaugural addresses reflected on DG Shipping’s pivotal role in shaping India’s shipping industry since Independence.

The evening’s Legacy Launch Segment was a true highlight, blending heritage with pride. A commemorative postal stamp was released in collaboration with India Post, alongside the unveiling of a coffee table book, a special newspaper supplement, and the trailer of a documentary chronicling India’s maritime journey. These releases served as a bridge between history and the aspirations of the future.

Awards That Celebrate Maritime Excellence

The centerpiece of the celebration was the DG Shipping 75th Anniversary Awards Ceremony. These national awards were created to recognize outstanding achievements, innovations, and contributions across diverse maritime segments, spanning safety, sustainability, training, heritage preservation, and welfare.

Among the most notable honors of the evening was the Jal-Doot Seafarer Welfare Champion Award conferred on the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI).

This award acknowledged the tireless efforts of NUSI, recognising welfare initiatives in the health, rights, and safety of seafarers. Over decades, NUSI has been a beacon of welfare, ensuring that the voices and well-being of Indian seafarers remain at the forefront of industry progress.

Alongside NUSI, several other maritime stakeholders were also honored for their outstanding contributions to the maritime industry, and we extend heartfelt congratulations to each one of them for their achievements.

Celebrating People and Partnerships

Beyond awards, the celebration also paid tribute to the many teams and partners who contributed to making the 75-year journey special. The Felicitation of Celebration Teams recognized this collective effort.

As the evening drew to its Final Segment, the mood shifted with “Echoes from the Sea”, which beautifully wove maritime themes.

Charting the Course Ahead

The Platinum Jubilee of DG Shipping was more than an anniversary; it was a reminder of how far India’s maritime sector has come, and how much further it aims to go. By honouring institutions like NUSI and other maritime champions, the event highlighted a sector rooted in legacy, welfare, and innovation, sailing confidently toward the future.

Long Live NUSI, Long Live Seafarers Unity

Yours sincerely,

Milind Kandalgaonkar
General Secretary -cum- Treasurer

JAI HIND JAI NAVIK JAI NUSI

Directorate General of Shipping, India #2025

25/08/2025

Safe Repatriation of Five Indian Seafarers from Vessel ANKA

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I am pleased to inform you that all five Indian seafarers from the vessel ANKA have successfully signed off and will be arriving safely in India on 27th August 2025.

This significant achievement has been made possible through the tireless efforts of the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), with the active support of ITF, NUSI, MUI, P&I Clubs, and RPSL companies.

It may be recalled that the vessel had earlier been arrested by the Secret Service Department of Ukraine, which made the situation extremely complex and challenging. However, thanks to consistent follow-ups, coordinated diplomatic interventions, and industry-wide cooperation, the safe and timely repatriation of our Indian seafarers has been ensured.

NUSI expresses its heartfelt gratitude to all the authorities, organisations, and stakeholders involved in bringing our seafarers back home to their families. This is yet another testament to the strength of unity and collective action in safeguarding the rights and welfare of Indian seafarers.

In Solidarity,
Milind Kandalgaonkar
General Secretary-cum-Treasurer

Directorate General of Shipping, India

23/08/2025

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As you are aware, DCI has taken the unfortunate decision to outsource manpower on its vessels. This move directly threatens the livelihoods, dignity, and future security of our seafarers and their families.

In response, our brothers and sisters serving on DCI vessels have begun their agitation to strongly oppose this unjust outsourcing policy. The agitation is gathering momentum, and today more vessels — DR-15, DR-12, DR-20, and DR-14 — have also joined in support of the protest. This growing participation clearly shows the determination, unity, and courage of our seafarers to safeguard their rightful jobs.

NUSI stands shoulder to shoulder with every seafarer in this struggle. We will not allow the voice of our members to be ignored, and we will continue to raise this matter with full force until justice is achieved.

The strength of this agitation lies in our solidarity. Together, we will protect our jobs, our dignity, and our future.

In Solidarity,
Team NUSI

Milind Kandalgaonkar