India, as a leading hub in the global maritime industry, places strict regulations on the recruitment of seafarers through its RPSL (Recruiting and Placement Services License) system. The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways updates this list annually to promote transparency and eliminate fraudulent practices.
This blog provides the 2025 updated list of registered RPSL companies in India, explains how to verify a company’s status, and shares best practices to protect seafarers and stakeholders.
What is an RPSL Company?
An RPSL Company is a recruitment and placement agency authorized by the DG Shipping, India to recruit Indian seafarers for employment on national or foreign-going ships. Every such agency is allotted a unique RPSL number.
Only companies listed under the DGS’s approved RPSL list are legally allowed to place Indian seafarers aboard merchant ships.
Why Is RPSL Registration Important?
- Prevents seafarer exploitation
- Ensures legal recruitment practices
- Mandatory for ship owners to engage Indian seafarers
- Enables government to monitor seafarer welfare
- Validates legitimacy of manning agents
Beware: Working through non-RPSL agencies can lead to legal issues, abandonment, unpaid wages, or no repatriation support.
How to Verify an RPSL Company?
You can easily verify a company’s registration using the official DG Shipping portal:
Step-by-step Guide
- Visit: https://www.dgshipping.gov.in
- Navigate to “Maritime Services” → “RPSL Companies”
- Click “List of Registered RPSL Companies”
- Search using the RPSL number or Company name
- Check validity, status, and renewal date
Full List of Registered RPSL Companies in India (2025)
Below is a sample of registered RPSL companies as of July 2025. For a complete and most updated list, refer to the DG Shipping website
Common Red Flags of Fake Manning Agents
- No RPSL number or unverifiable number
- Guaranteed jobs with high salary claims
- Demand for money before joining
- No registered office or website
- Use of Gmail/Yahoo emails instead of official domains
Tip: Always insist on seeing the RPSL Certificate, and verify the company name against the DGS database.
State-wise Distribution of RPSL Companies
| State | No. of RPSL Companies |
| Maharashtra | 150+ |
| Tamil Nadu | 40+ |
| West Bengal | 25+ |
| Delhi | 15+ |
| Gujarat | 10+ |
How to File a Complaint Against an RPSL Company
If you encounter issues with a registered RPSL company—such as illegal charges, document withholding, or misconduct—you can file a formal complaint through the E-Governance portal of the Directorate General of Shipping. Visit https://www.dgshipping.gov.in, log in using your Indos number, and go to the “Grievance/Complaint” section. Fill in the details with supporting documents or evidence and submit your complaint. The DGS reviews all submissions seriously to protect seafarers’ rights and maintain accountability in the maritime recruitment process.
Conclusion
Choosing an authorized RPSL company in India is crucial for your maritime career and legal safety. The 2025 updated RPSL list issued by DG Shipping helps seafarers and shipowners avoid fraudulent agents and ensure compliance with global maritime norms.
Stay updated, verify credentials, and always work with certified manning agencies to safeguard your future at sea.