We are the Indian Merchant Navy.

 

We are not asking for medals.

We are not asking for celebrity status.

We are simply asking for recognition, respect, and reforms.

> When the nation was in lockdown, we were at sea.

We deliver fuel, food, medicine, and cargo across the world — every single day.

Yet when we return home, we are invisible.

Are we not Indian enough?

🚢 Our Demands:

1. Official recognition for Merchant Navy – similar to Armed Forces, Railways, or Aviation.

2. Welfare, pension, and retirement protection – we also leave our families for months to serve.

3. Strict action against fake agents and fraud training institutes – save young seafarers from exploitation.

4. Transparent and active Seafarer Welfare Board – where grievances can be addressed officially.

5. Update the outdated Merchant Shipping Act (1958) – align it with MLC 2006 and global standards.

6. Beyond token speeches on Merchant Navy Day – we need reforms and rights.

 

🌊 A Seafarer’s Honest Question:

 

> “I carry India’s flag across the oceans.

When I return, why doesn’t my country carry me back with dignity?”

✊ This is Not Just a Petition – This is a Wake-Up Call.

 

To the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways,

To the Directorate General of Shipping,

To the Government of India:

We request you to Recognise. Respect. Reform. the Merchant Navy.

India sails forward — only when we do.