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.
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.
