Shri Balaram Patil
Founder & President, GSUI | Former Member of Legislative Council (MLC)
Dear Brothers, Sisters, and Members of the Maritime Community,
It gives me immense pride to address you as the Founder and President of the Global Seafarers Union of India (GSUI) — an organization born from struggle, built on solidarity, and driven by a shared vision of justice for every seafarer in this country.
For over two decades, I have been actively involved in the fight for the rights of the Project-Affected People (PAPs), workers, and farmers of Navi Mumbai and Raigad District. I have witnessed the pain of displacement, the challenges of exploitation, and the silent suffering of those who work behind the scenes to keep our cities and industries moving forward. Among them, the voices of our seafarers — India’s invisible lifeline of global trade — have too often gone unheard.
GSUI was established on 4th March 2022, not just as a union but as a movement. A movement to empower our maritime workers, to bridge the gap between seafarers and industry, and to create an ecosystem where rights, respect, and responsibility coexist.
What makes GSUI unique is our collaborative spirit. We do not believe in conflict, but in constructive cooperation — with shipping companies, port authorities, training institutes, and above all, government agencies. Together, we aim to shape inclusive policies, strengthen worker protections, and foster a future where India’s maritime workforce is safe, skilled, and globally respected.
Our dedicated team, including leaders like Richa Gaurav Porwal and Gaurav Porwal, brings decades of experience in advocacy, welfare, and maritime policy reform. With your support, GSUI will not only fight for seafarers’ rights but also help drive transformation in the entire shipping industry.
I call upon every seafarer, every company leader, and every citizen who believes in dignity of labour — join us. Let us chart a new course, one that ensures justice on land and at sea.
With solidarity and strength,
Shri Balaram Patil
President, Global Seafarers Union of India (GSUI)
Former Member of Legislative Council