The Republican Maritime Union (RMU) has formally announced the constitution of its new National Committee following the successful conduct of internal elections held on 14 April 2026. The newly elected leadership officially assumed office on 20 April 2026 and convened its first executive meeting with members, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, safety, and welfare of seafarers, while addressing the evolving challenges faced by maritime professionals in India and across the globe.
The meeting commenced with the formal introduction of the newly elected committee and an acknowledgment of the valuable contributions made by the outgoing executive members. The new leadership collectively reiterated its resolve to strengthen maritime labour rights, enhance onboard working conditions, and improve welfare support mechanisms for seafarers.
Newly Elected National Committee
The newly constituted leadership of the Republican Maritime Union is as follows:
National President: Shri N. Ravindra Babu
Vice President (Marine Engineering): Shri R. Chandrakanth
Vice President (Marine Engineering): Shri Sunil
General Secretary: Shri M. Jaganmohan Rao Naidu
Joint Secretary: Shri Ch. Jeevan Kumar
Treasurer: Shri Rahul
Executive Member: Shri Surappadu
Executive Member: Shri N. Chandrasekhar
Executive Member: Shri. Rambabu Singh
Executive Member: Shri. R. K Yadav
In addition, Area Representatives have been appointed across key maritime regions, including Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Kakinada, Krishnapatnam, Paradip, Gopalpur, Chennai, Tuticorin, Mumbai, Gujarat, West Bengal, Goa, Mangalore, and Kochi, ensuring comprehensive national representation of seafarers’ concerns.
Participation of Dignitaries
The occasion was graced by Shri Ravada Seetharam, Hon’ble Member of the Andhra Pradesh State SC Commission, who attended as the Chief Guest and extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected National President and all committee members. He appreciated the Union’s efforts in advocating for the welfare and rights of seafarers, particularly those from socially and economically weaker sections.
Key Issues and Deliberations
A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to deliberating on the pressing challenges faced by seafarers at both national and international levels. The Union emphasized that, despite being responsible for nearly 90% of global trade, seafarers continue to face numerous hardships, including job insecurity, extended contractual periods, mental health stress, inadequate welfare infrastructure, and delays in repatriation.
Concern Over Persian Gulf Situation
The Union expressed serious concern regarding the prevailing geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf region, which have adversely impacted maritime operations. It was reported that several Indian seafarers are currently stranded in and around Iranian waters due to operational disruptions.
The RMU stated that it has received multiple distress calls from affected seafarers and their families. While many crew members have already completed their contractual tenure, others have expressed their unwillingness to continue under escalating war-risk conditions.
In this regard, the Union has strongly urged the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) to immediately coordinate with concerned embassies to expedite visa issuance for relievers and facilitate timely crew changes and safe repatriation of Indian seafarers.
The Union further emphasized that seafarers must have the fundamental right to refuse sailing or continuing service in high-risk or war-affected zones. It called upon DG Shipping to issue a formal circular affirming this right and to take strict action against any shipping company that compels seafarers to work under unsafe conditions.
Additional Key Concerns
The meeting also addressed several critical issues affecting the maritime workforce, including:
The protection of cadets and junior officers from harassment, exploitation, and unsafe working environments onboard vessels
Ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential provisions such as food, fresh water, and groceries to vessels operating in affected regions
Addressing mental health challenges faced by seafarers through dedicated counselling and welfare support systems
The Union further discussed the need for upgrading the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) office at Visakhapatnam to a Principal Officer (PO) office, which would significantly enhance administrative efficiency and improve service delivery to seafarers.
Commitment to Welfare, Safety and Justice
The Republican Maritime Union reaffirmed its commitment to work closely with concerned authorities, maritime organizations, and international stakeholders to:
Improve onboard safety and working conditions
Ensure timely repatriation and effective crisis response mechanisms
Provide legal and welfare assistance to seafarers and their families
Strengthen enforcement of international maritime labour laws
Expand welfare centres and support networks across Indian ports
Promote employment security and fair opportunities for seafarers at all times
The Union emphasized that the maritime industry must evolve into a more humane, transparent, and accountable system that recognizes and respects the invaluable contributions of seafarers to global trade and economic stability.
The newly elected leadership pledged to act as a strong and unified voice for maritime workers and to collaborate with national and international institutions to ensure dignity, security, and justice for all seafarers.
Source: Republican Maritime Union
