The introduction of the Seafarers’ Code of Conduct – Compliance & Enforcement Manual by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) which will come into force on January 1, 2026, is a major milestone for the country’s maritime industry. This comprehensive guide isn’t just a rulebook but also a commitment to raising the bar for safety, professionalism and all round good behaviour in one of the world’s most vital and busiest industries.
For Indian seafarers, shipping companies and anyone involved with maritime in India, this DGS code of conduct brings a new era of total transparency, fairness and global compliance that will help keep people safe at sea, protect the marine environment, and put India on the world maritime map in a whole new light.
Understanding the Seafarers’ Code of Conduct
The Seafarers’ Code of Conduct is a detailed manual developed by the Directorate General of Shipping that is aimed at safety standards, human rights, ethics and enforcement rules across India’s shipping industry. It applies to seafarers, shipping companies, Recruitment and Placement Service (RPSL) providers, ship owners and maritime training institutes that operate under Indian law.
At its heart, the DGS Code of Conduct for seafarers brings India’s maritime business into line with international agreements like:
- MLC 2006 (Maritime Labour Convention) which makes sure that Indian seafarers get a fair deal.
- SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) to ensure keeping ships and seafarers safe.
- MARPOL (Marine Pollution) for the protection of the environment .
- STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) to ensure that seafarers have the right training and qualifications.
By doing this, it means that Indian seafarers and shipping companies will have to meet the same standards that the rest of the world respects.
Why the DGS Code of Conduct Matters for Indian Seafarers
1. Making Sure Human Rights Are Protected
The new DGS code of conduct makes it a priority to protect the dignity, equality and fundamental rights of every single seafarer. It’s very clear that forced labour, human trafficking, child labour and any kind of discrimination based on things like religion, gender, where you come from or what you believe in are totally out of order. This helps create a safe and respectful work place on ships where Indian seafarers are treated with the respect they deserve.
2. Keeping People Safe and Healthy at Sea
India’s maritime industry is built around people – so the health and safety of seafarers is the top priority. The DGS code of conduct makes companies sign up to proper safety management systems that are approved by international standards like ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety. It also makes sure that everyone gets the support they need for their physical and mental health – including having health insurance and a culture that encourages people to report any safety worries they have. It’s all about making sure Indian seafarers are safe and healthy.
3. Making Sure Everyone Has an Equal Chance
The Code is all about making sure everyone has an equal chance in the industry. It ensures that RPSL companies create work places that are inclusive and welcoming and also stresses the importance of giving seafarers the training and qualifications they need to be the best they can be. This means Indian seafarers can compete with the best in the world and have a real career in the maritime industry. If you are too looking for someone who can help start a maritime business then get your maritime technical consultancy for RPSL and startups today.
4. Environmental Stewardship
As the world wakes up to environmental concerns, the new DGS code of conduct embeds environmental responsibility in maritime operations. It encourages cleaner fuels, strict compliance with pollution prevention regulations, waste reduction and stakeholder education. Indian seafarers and companies are asked to be the guardians of marine biodiversity, for the future generations.
5. Transparent Enforcement and Fair Investigations
The DGS code of conduct outlines clear procedures for identifying, investigating and addressing violations of laws and standards. While it prefers voluntary compliance and remedial measures for minor breaches, it authorises firm penalties – including fines, suspensions and prosecutions for deliberate or repeated violations. This ensures fair treatment through due process and protects the integrity of the maritime sector.
6. Introducing a Star Rating System for Seafarers
A new initiative in the Code is the proposed star rating system, which rates seafarers on professionalism, safety adherence and conduct. This incentivises good behaviour and enables transparent recognition of competence, to motivate Indian seafarers to always be excellent and not to practice unsafe habits.
How the New Code of Conduct Benefits Indian Seafarers and India’s Maritime Industry
- Safety: By enforcing uniform safety standards, the DGS code of conduct reduces accidents, injuries and fatalities at sea, saving lives of seafarers.
- Global Recognition: Aligning with international maritime laws enhances the credibility of Indian certificates and seafarers in the global job market.
- Career Advancement: Mandatory training and fair employment practices opens up opportunities for seafarers to upskill and move up the career ladder.
- Environmental Legacy: Proactive green shipping policies help India meet its climate goals and build a sustainable maritime future.
- Fair Work Culture: Protecting human rights and ensuring fair treatment boosts morale and job satisfaction among seafarers.
- Accountability: Effective enforcement deters malpractices and corruption, builds trust in the maritime community.
What Indian Seafarers should know today
- Ensure all medical certifications and checks are obtained from DGS approved institutes.
- Engage in regular training and skill upgradation as per the Code’s recommendations.
- Know your rights against discrimination, bullying and unsafe working conditions.
- Understand the new enforcement mechanisms and the importance of safety and ethical standards.
- Embrace the new star rating system as a tool for career recognition and personal growth.
Conclusion
The DGS Code of Conduct for seafarers is a path breaking document that secures the future of Indian seafarers and the entire maritime sector. It combines legal framework with human values, safety and environmental awareness. For Indian maritime professionals, being part of this Code means more than compliance. It means pride, professionalism and being part of a global community that strives for excellence at sea.
As India sets its course in global shipping, this new DGS code of conduct is the guide that helps every seafarer to navigate their career with confidence, integrity and safety – to make India a responsible maritime nation.
FAQs on the Seafarers’ Code of Conduct
1. What is the Seafarers’ Code of Conduct introduced by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS)?
The new DGS Code of Conduct for Indian seafarers is a comprehensive regulatory manual launched by India’s DGS, effective January 2026. It sets clear standards for safety, human rights, ethical behavior, training, and environmental responsibility for Indian seafarers, shipping companies, and maritime service providers, aligning Indian maritime operations with global conventions such as MLC 2006, SOLAS, MARPOL, and STCW.
2. Why is this Code important for Indian seafarers?
This code of conduct protects the dignity, health, safety, and welfare of seafarers by enforcing uniform standards and fair treatment across the maritime industry. It fosters a safe workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and forced labor, while promoting career development, environmental stewardship, and accountability through transparent enforcement and a performance-based star rating system.
3. How does the Code ensure safety and fair treatment onboard ships?
The new DGS code of conduct mandates compliance with international safety management standards, including ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety. It requires companies to proactively manage safety training and encourages seafarers to report unsafe conditions. It also includes clear investigation procedures and fair legal processes for handling violations, with penalties ranging from warnings to prosecution depending on severity.
4. What new initiatives are introduced by the Code to promote professionalism among seafarers?
A key initiative is the star rating system introduced by new DGS code of conduct that evaluates seafarers based on work performance, integrity, and adherence to safety protocols. This incentivizes good conduct, supports career growth, and helps maritime companies recognize and reward responsible seafarers, enhancing India’s global maritime reputation.
5. How does the Code address environmental responsibility in maritime operations?
The new DGS code of conduct for Indian seafarers emphasizes environmental stewardship by encouraging adoption of cleaner fuels and practices, strict adherence to anti-pollution regulations, and the reduction of plastic waste onboard ships. It aligns with internationally recognized sustainability goals, urging the Indian maritime sector to play a proactive role in protecting oceans and reducing its carbon footprint.