Government Exempts Highly Specialized Vessels from Age Norms to Address Industry Challenges

The Indian government has expanded the list of vessels exempt from age norms, adding “Highly Specialized Vessels” to the excluded category. The Directorate General of Shipping, India’s maritime regulator, made the amendment in response to lobbying from industry stakeholders, who cited difficulties in complying with the age norms. The updated order grants additional time for compliance with qualitative norms and allows for the acquisition of vessels until the next drydock survey.

The original order, issued on 24 February, already excluded passenger vessels, FSRUs, FPSOs, and Drilling/Production units certified under MODU/SPS Code. These vessel categories have a high average age across the global fleet, with Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal stating that they are designed to operate for 30 to 50 years. The age norms were introduced to improve the quality of Indian tonnage and support the government’s plan to promote the flagging of ships in India.

According to the Directorate General of Shipping, quality tonnage is essential for the safe and secure expansion of the maritime sector and to achieve sustainability in ocean governance. The regulator emphasized the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transforming vessels to run on alternate fuels. Age norms play a role in phasing out fossil fuel ships and promoting the entry of alternate and low carbon energy-efficient ships.

The updated order reflects the government’s response to industry concerns while still striving to maintain the quality of Indian tonnage and meet international standards for reducing emissions. By exempting “Highly Specialized Vessels” from the age norms, stakeholders will have more flexibility in their operations, providing a balance between industry needs and environmental goals.

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