In a landmark celebration, the Bhartiya Navik Sena Union (BNSU) marked its 25th anniversary with a grand event held at Yashwantrao Chavan Centre, Nariman Point, Mumbai. The Silver Jubilee was a proud moment that united maritime industry leaders, government dignitaries, and seafarers from across India, reaffirming the Union’s enduring commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Indian seafarers.
A Grand Gathering of Maritime and Government Dignitaries
The event saw the presence of esteemed leaders including:
- Capt. Sanjay Srivastav and Capt. Naren Bhatt – Inchcape Shipping
- Dr. Sanjay Bhanwani – MMSI Maritime (India)
- Capt. K.S. Patani – Elite Mariners Pvt. Ltd.
- Capt. Deepak Copera – Elegant Marine Services
- Capt. Vineet Gupta – Anglo Eastern Ship Management
- Capt. Anil Arora – Executive Ship Management
Additionally, senior officials from shipping companies, veterans, and seafarers joined to honor BNSU’s achievements and its unwavering dedication to maritime welfare.
Dignitaries & Guests of Honor
The event was graced by:
- Shri Narayan Rane, Member Of Parliament, Ex. CM of Maharashtra, Ex. Union Minister for MSME, Government of India
- Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways
- Shri Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra
- Shiv Sena Leader Shri Nilesh Rane MLA
The event included a special tribute to the Father of the Indian Navy, Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, with a symbolic Maharaj Abhishek Ceremony.
Reflecting on a Proud Legacy
The evening featured a powerful retrospective on the 25-year journey of BNSU, highlighting its impact through:
- Advocating fair working conditions for Indian seafarers
- Raising awareness about seafarers’ rights
- Intervening in legal and welfare issues faced abroad
- Collaborating with policymakers to drive change
Uplifting Rural Education: A New Chapter
Marking the Silver Jubilee, BNSU launched a Book Distribution Initiative for underprivileged school children in rural Maharashtra. The initiative aims to:
- Bridge educational gaps
- Improve access to quality resources for students
- Build a stronger, literate future generation
This thoughtful initiative underscores BNSU’s broader social mission beyond seafaring welfare.
Honoring Dedication and Leadership
Several key individuals who have played vital roles in BNSU’s journey were felicitated:
- Mr. Puri Rohit (Chief Strategy Officer)
- Mr. Rajesh Kanojia, Mr. Prashant Kadam, Mr. Rajesh Babu, Mr. Santosh Kate, Mr. Hemant Kamble (PROs)
- Mr. Naren Koli, Mr. Amit Dhaval, Mr. Akshay Angre, Mr. Ramesh Jogannapalle, Mr. Sachin Khadye
Their relentless dedication contributed significantly to the Union’s success and the global advocacy of Indian seafarers.
A Night of Celebration & Musical Harmony
The night was capped with a live orchestra, setting a relaxed and joyful tone for the attendees. The atmosphere was filled with stories, memories, and a sense of unity. A lavish dinner concluded the event, symbolizing gratitude and camaraderie.
A Vision for the Future
As BNSU steps into the next chapter, it remains committed to its mission:
To protect, support, and uplift Indian seafarers, both at home and abroad.
The Silver Jubilee celebration was not just a reflection of the past but a strong signal of a vibrant future ahead.
