Seafarers in Mumbai protested against a recent directive from the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), which prohibits crew members with certificates from non-recognized maritime administrations from sailing. The Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) is demanding the withdrawal of this order, asserting that it poses significant risks to the employment of Indian seafarers. The directive, issued on July 18, requires Indian seafarers on foreign vessels to hold valid Certificates of Competency from either the Indian Maritime Authority or countries with Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRA).
FSUI General Secretary Manoj Yadav emphasized that the circular excludes certificates from several recognized countries, threatening the employability of many Indian seafarers who hold valid credentials. Additionally, the mandate to verify STCW course certificates from only DGS-approved institutes creates barriers and fears of disqualification among trained professionals, according to FSUI President Bankim Bharati.
The union claims that thousands of seafarers face career disruptions and financial insecurity due to the directive, which also burdens shipping companies with compliance challenges. They urge the Shipping Ministry to convene a meeting with stakeholders to address these issues promptly. Furthermore, FSUI is calling for government action to protect abandoned Indian seafarers and to introduce a pension scheme for those facing job losses.
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