At the Green Shipping Conclave 2025 held on 20/02/2025, at Westin Hotel, Powai, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Arsenio Dominguez , the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
During our discussion, I provided him with a comprehensive overview of the #Sailors' Union of India (SUI) and its affiliation with #Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS). I highlighted the continuous efforts of SUI-BMS in advocating for the rights and welfare of Indian seafarers, ensuring fair wages, better working conditions, and safeguarding their interests both in India and internationally.
Additionally, I emphasized the proactive role SUI has played in addressing critical issues such as seafarer harassment, unfair wage deductions, and the need for a fair and transparent maritime regulatory framework. I also briefed him on our recent petition for a global basic wage increment for Indian seafarers, which resulted in a 4% salary hike and the formation of a Wage Negotiation Committee by the Indian Maritime Administration.
The IMO Secretary-General expressed his appreciation for the constructive role of SUI-BMS in the Indian maritime industry and acknowledged its significant contributions towards the welfare of seafarers and the global shipping sector. He thanked SUI-BMS for its unwavering support and dedication to ensuring fair treatment, safety, and well-being for seafarers worldwide.
This meeting served as a valuable platform to strengthen India's maritime workforce representation at the global level and reaffirm the commitment of SUI-BMS towards creating a more equitable and sustainable maritime industry.
