The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has informed the family of the missing seafarer and is providing necessary support. A fact-finding investigation is underway to ensure compliance with legal obligations. State minister Sampad Chandra Swain has urged Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal to expedite rescue efforts for Mohapatra.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has outlined the process for migrating seafarer profiles to the new e-Samudra portal, ensuring a seamless transition for all maritime personnel. Seafarers are advised to verify their mobile numbers and email addresses on the existing portal to receive important migration notifications.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) met with the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) to address critical grievances affecting Indian seafarers. Key issues included compensation for deceased seafarers’ families, wage disputes, and the need for stronger support systems. DG Shipping committed to prioritizing seafarer welfare and reviewing all concerns collaboratively.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has issued a 10-point advisory to combat the exploitation of seafarers by unauthorized recruitment agents. It stresses the necessity of engaging only with certified Recruitment and Placement Services License (RPSL) companies and encourages verification through the DGS website to avoid significant risks and ensure ethical practices.
A case has been filed against 24 candidates from the Engineering and Nautical Department for allegedly securing jobs using fraudulent Certificates of Competency (COC). The investigation, initiated by the Directorate General of Shipping, uncovered numerous fake entries linked to a Kolkata examination center, raising serious concerns about maritime employment integrity in India.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has partnered with the Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Limited (IPRCL) to improve seafarers’ welfare and maritime infrastructure in India. This collaboration outlines key efforts in project execution, focusing on safety standards, ultimately enhancing conditions for the maritime workforce across the nation.
A delegation from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) visited the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) in Mumbai to enhance maritime cooperation. Discussions focused on India’s examination processes and training programs, aiming to explore opportunities for employing Indian seafarers in Japan’s shipping industry, reinforcing collaboration in maritime education.
During India Maritime Week 2025, the Directorate General of Shipping met with A.P. Moller – Maersk Group to enhance collaboration on offshore safety, maritime security, and seafarer welfare. They emphasized improving safety frameworks, crew conditions, and adopting best practices, reinforcing their commitment to a sustainable and secure maritime ecosystem.
The Directorate for Shipping (DG Shipping) has clarified rumors regarding a potential ban on foreign maritime competitors. They assure that valid seafarers are unaffected by misconceptions. A 30-day validation period for RPSL agencies has been introduced to enhance transparency and protect Indian seafarers while upholding international standards.
The Directorate General Shipping (SWFS) recently hosted a symposium at the Cidco Convention Center, focusing on seafarer recruitment and welfare. Esteemed maritime experts and political leaders discussed strategies to enhance recruitment processes and well-being for seafarers, aiming to position India as a global leader in maritime human resources.
Mumbai celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Directorate General Shipping (DGS) with a significant conference on maritime security, themed “Jalasya Rakṣā, Janasya Surakṣā: Ocean Sentinel in the 21st Century.” This event brought together global maritime leaders and formalized important international cooperation through two key memorandums of understanding to enhance safety and seafarer well-being.
The Kerala Maritime Board is set to introduce approved maritime training courses in Kodungallur and Neendakara, following a directive from the Director General of Shipping. This move comes after a ban on unapproved private training centers, emphasizing compliance with national and international standards for maritime education to ensure seafarers’ qualifications.
The Global Seafarers Union of India (GSUI) has voiced significant concerns regarding Order No. 08 of 2025 from the Directorate General of Shipping. This directive bans certain foreign maritime administrations from providing training in India without prior approval. GSUI fears it will negatively impact seafarers who have obtained crucial certificates through foreign-affiliated institutions.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has initiated a review of foreign certificates issued to Indian seafarers to combat fraudulent practices and protect legitimate maritime jobs. This follows a controversial guideline limiting competency certificates from certain countries, leading to protests and legal action. Affected seafarers must submit verification documents to continue working.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has mandated that all maritime training for Indian seafarers adhere to national and international standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). A recent directive prohibits foreign entities from conducting training in India without prior approval, aiming to uphold India’s maritime education integrity. Violations will incur severe penalties.
