India’s New Guidelines Issued on Restriction of Seafarers Above 65 Age

Seafarers above the age of 65 may now face restrictions on their employability in certain types of vessels, according to a recent notification from the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS). This new rule applies to cargo or passenger vessels registered under the Merchant Shipping Act, as well as river-sea vessels or Indian coastal vessels that do not require lifeboats as part of their life-saving equipment. The decision to implement these restrictions came after an inquiry into a tragic incident involving the sinking of an inland vessel bound for Goa, which resulted in the loss of three seafarers’ lives. The inquiry was conducted by the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD).

In exceptional cases, companies wishing to employ seafarers over the age of 65 can seek permission from the nearest MMD by submitting pre-joining medical certificates and test reports. The MMD will assess the application on the same day, taking into consideration the physical abilities required for various seafaring duties. The medical certificate for seafarers aged 65 and above will only be valid for the duration of their contract. Captain Harinder Singh, Nautical Surveyor and Deputy Director General of Shipping, emphasized the importance of ensuring that older seafarers are fit for duty.

Additionally, the notification specifies that seafarers over the age of 70 must undergo rigorous pre-joining medical examinations, with companies needing to obtain permission from the nearest MMD before hiring them. Manoj Joy of Sailors Society, an organization providing support to seafarers and their families, welcomed the new regulation, stating that it will help ensure that only physically capable seafarers are allowed to continue working at sea.

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