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.
Seafarers in Mumbai protested against a recent directive from the Directorate General of Shipping that restricts crew members with non-recognized maritime certificates from sailing. The Forward Seamen’s Union of India demands the order’s withdrawal, arguing it jeopardizes employment for many Indian seafarers and poses significant compliance challenges for shipping companies.
Officials from the International Maritime Federation (IMF) warn that over 700 Indian-flagged vessels may face premature retirement due to new age-based restrictions from the Directorate General of Shipping. This could cost 20,000 seafarers their jobs and impact over 100,000 livelihoods. The IMF urges reforms to prioritize safety over age.
The Directorate General of Shipping has condemned MSC Ship Management for negligence in the MV ELSA 3 rescue efforts near Kochi. Highlighting environmental risks, it warned that legal action will follow if oil extraction doesn’t start within 48 hours, jeopardizing local fishing communities’ livelihoods amid ongoing pollution challenges.
The Directorate General of Shipping and Gujarat Maritime University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration in maritime law and governance. This partnership aims to strengthen India’s maritime sector through joint research, legal consultancy, and talent development, aligning with the government’s vision for a competitive maritime environment.
The Directorate General for Shipping (DG Shipping) has responded to breaches in maritime regulations by taking action against 97 hiring agencies. With 74 blocked and five facing license suspension, the DG Shipping seeks to protect Indian seafarers from exploitation, emphasizing the need for regulation and quality assurance in placement services.
The Directorate General of Shipping and the Company of Master Mariners of India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance maritime documentation. This collaboration will improve casualty data validation and reporting, fostering transparency and better decision-making in the maritime sector, ultimately raising operational standards in India.
On March 28, 2025, New Delhi hosted the 62nd National Maritime Day celebrations, marking a significant occasion. Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received the Merchant Navy flag, an event steered by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal. Key maritime figures gathered to discuss the industry’s future and its economic importance.
Seafarers over 65 may now face restrictions on employment in certain vessels, as per a recent DGS notification. This rule applies to cargo/passenger vessels under the Merchant Shipping Act, as well as river-sea/Indian coastal vessels without lifeboats. Companies can seek permission for older seafarers, ensuring they are fit for duty. Joy of Sailors Society supports the regulation.
In a significant development for India’s maritime sector, the DGS and C-DAC have signed an MoU to drive technological advancements. This collaboration aims to promote digitalisation, automation, cybersecurity, and research within the industry. Leveraging C-DAC’s expertise, the partnership seeks to modernize processes and establish India as a globally recognized maritime administration.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI) have launched the innovative program “Sagar Mein Yog – Complete wellness at sea” to prioritize the welfare of Indian seafarers. This initiative integrates yoga and holistic wellness practices to address the unique challenges faced by seafarers on extended voyages.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) celebrates 75 years of service to India’s maritime sector, promoting safety and governance. To commemorate this milestone, a special logo featuring ’75’, DGS’s emblem, and a wave motif has been unveiled, symbolizing excellence and the extensive maritime domain overseen by the DGS.
The Directorate General of Shipping has established an expert committee to evaluate Collective Bargaining Agreements for Indian seafarers, focusing on wages and working conditions. Over 350,000 Indian seafarers represent a significant portion of the global workforce. The review aims to align CBAs with national and international standards, improving conditions overall.
