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Maritime Union of India: An Overview

The Maritime Union of India (MUI) is an association of Indian merchant navy officers who work in the shipping industry. It was founded on December 3, 1939, and since then it has been operated and governed by an autonomous non-profit body. The MUI is affiliated to the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), London, U.K., which represents over 4.5 million transport workers from some 150 countries. The MUI is also affiliated to the Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), New Delhi, which represents a large section of workers from various industries in India. The MUI is represented on government and semi-government maritime boards and committees, and it also liaises with seafarer training institutes and welfare organizations.

How to Become a Member?

To become a member of M.U.I, one has to be a qualified merchant navy officer holding a valid certificate of competency issued by the Directorate General of Shipping, India. The applicant has to fill an online membership form and pay the membership fees through the M.U.I website. The membership fees is just Rs. 1800 per year and additionally for the first year of joining the sailor has to pay a joining fees of just Rs. 500 one-time. Other optional features like the COC protection plan may incur other meagre charges. The membership is valid for one year and can be renewed online.

You may follow the below step to get yourself registered with the M.U.I.

STEP 1: Click on New Registration option at the top left corner.

STEP 2: Check the membership fees and other fee structure.

STEP 3: Scroll down and click on Send E-mail (for filling and submitting the form online) or you may select to Download the form to submit offline. Given below is the sample format of the offline form.

STEP 4: Below is a sample form that can be submitted online. Fill up the form and click Submit at the bottom of the screen.

After this you will be redirected to the payments page. Make the payment and you will receive a mail from the M.U.I. They will ask for a few details from you. Send them the scans of the documents they ask for. Soon, you will receive a confirmation mail from MUI along with your e-membership card. That’s it! You are now a member of MUI.

What is COC protection?

COC protection is a benefit that MUI members can enjoy. It means that their certificate of competency (COC) is insured to provide financial support in case of a marine court of inquiry in India or abroad. This can help the members in case of any legal or disciplinary issues arising from their profession.

What are the Benefits of Being a Member of MUI?

Being a member of MUI has several benefits, such as:

Legal and taxation guidance: The MUI provides guidance and assistance to its members on legal and taxation matters related to the merchant navy profession. The MUI also has a panel of lawyers and chartered accountants who can help the members in case of any disputes or issues with their employers, authorities, or other parties.
Medical benefits: The MUI has a trust fund that provides medical benefits to its members and their dependents. The trust fund covers the cost of hospitalization, surgery, medicines, and other expenses incurred due to illness or injury. The trust fund also provides financial assistance to the members in case of death or permanent disability.
Welfare and social activities: The MUI organizes various welfare and social activities for its members and their families, such as sports events, cultural programs, seminars, workshops, picnics, etc. The MUI also has a women’s wing that works for the empowerment and welfare of the women members and their spouses.
Convalescent homes: The MUI has four convalescent homes located in Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Matheran, and Ooty. These are well-furnished and comfortable cottages that can accommodate up to six people each. The members can book these cottages online for a nominal charge and enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating stay with their families. The convalescent homes are equipped with all the basic amenities and facilities, such as kitchen, refrigerator, television, etc.

Conclusion

The Maritime Union of India is a trusted and respected organization that protects the rights and interests of the Indian merchant navy officers. It provides various services and benefits to its members, such as legal and taxation guidance, medical benefits, welfare and social activities, and convalescent homes. The MUI is also a part of the global transport workers’ movement and works for the betterment of the shipping industry and the seafarers. The MUI welcomes all the eligible merchant navy officers to join its ranks and become a part of its fraternity

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