The Directorate General of Shipping attended the UN Ocean Centres Stakeholders’ Workshop on May 21, 2026, in Ahmedabad, focusing on India’s ocean economy. Shri Satish Kamath highlighted maritime safety and sustainable practices. Discussions among diverse stakeholders emphasized the need for collaboration to address challenges in shipping, renewable energy, and skills development.
Recently, Mumbai hosted a key session by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), focusing on the Gulf Crisis and its impact on global maritime trade. Senior officials and industry stakeholders, including Shri Vijay Kumar of MoPSW, discussed operational strategies, safety for Indian seafarers, and strengthening domestic maritime capabilities in response to geopolitical challenges.
The Directorate General of Shipping has launched a 24×7 Grievance Redressal Mechanism to support India’s maritime community. This initiative offers seafarers and their families access to assistance via toll-free helplines, WhatsApp, and email, ensuring swift responses to operational and emergency concerns, reinforcing the commitment to their welfare.
The Indian government reported that 16 Indian-flagged vessels, carrying 433 seafarers, are currently in the western Persian Gulf. The Directorate General of Shipping is monitoring the situation, ensuring safety. Over 1,599 seafarers have been repatriated, with operations at Indian ports running smoothly amid ongoing evacuations from the Gulf region.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has granted a three-month extension for crew certificates, easing the burden on seafarers stranded in the Gulf. This decision addresses potential compliance issues amid heightened security and operational challenges. Additionally, safety training certificates will also see a similar extension, reflecting ongoing industry support.
The Directorate General of Shipping of India has issued DGS Circular 10 of 2026, updating safety advisories for seafarers in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. In response to recent maritime threats, shipowners must enhance vigilance, implement safety measures, and provide psychological support for crews facing stress and anxiety.
In response to evolving security threats in the Persian Gulf, the Directorate General of Shipping has launched a 24/7 Quick Response Team. This initiative aims to provide timely assistance and support for Indian seafarers, reflecting the government’s commitment to their safety and well-being in potentially volatile maritime environments.
Kolkata recently hosted a significant Symposium on Seafarers’ Recruitment and Welfare, organized by the Directorate General of Shipping. Key stakeholders, including RPSL holders and industry officials, discussed enhancing India’s maritime manpower ecosystem. Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde addressed challenges in recruitment, emphasizing transparency and ethical practices to protect seafarer rights.
The Directorate General of Shipping, led by Additional Director General Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde, convened to address the recent detention and abandonment of Indian seafarers. Emphasizing the safety and dignity of mariners, the meeting aimed at improving repatriation processes and ensuring a coordinated response to protect Indian seafarers abroad.
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.
