Rakesh Singh 
The DGS Star System assesses the compliance of seafarers through the awarding of positive stars for outstanding performance in safety standards, skills, and professionalism, and the deduction of stars for non-compliance with the Seafarers’ Code of Conduct under the guidelines within the Compliance Enforcement Manual. This was introduced through DGS Order No. 10 of 2025 … Read more
According to the DGS Seafarers Code of Conduct Compliance Enforcement Manual, issued by the Directorate General of Shipping, violations are categorized into three levels of severity based on their potential for risk to safety, environment, assets, and reputation. The present framework, applicable from 1 January 2026, will ensure that proportionate penalties are imposed on the … Read more
Seafarer grievances may be filed against RPSLs within the context of the Seafarers Code of Conduct if they establish violations either by inspecting, observing, and listening to complaints within the guidelines stated in the DGS Compliance Enforcement Manual beginning on January 1, 2026. The process ensures transparency in the enforcement of standards under the Merchant … Read more
Recruitment and Placement Service Licensees (RPSLs) play a significant part in ensuring compliance with the Seafarers Code of Conduct, as per the Directorate General of Shipping guidelines, which will come into effect from January 1, 2026. The whole system described within the DGS Seafarers Code of Conduct Compliance Enforcement Manual states strict disciplinary action for … Read more
The provisions regarding penalties within The Seafarers’ Code of Conduct, introduced by the Indian government’s Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), emphasize professional ethics, safety, and compliance for ships flagged or crewed by Indians. The code of conduct, featured as part of recent government regulations by DGS, as well as the Merchant Shipping Act, also prescribes … Read more
In a significant move to uphold maritime safety standards, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India, has officially rejected the application for renewal of the Document of Compliance (DOC) submitted by ITT Shipping (Private) Limited, Kolkata. The decision, issued on May 23, 2025, comes after a series of grave safety violations, a fatal … Read more
DGS Circular 2025: No More Fake Sea Service in CDCs The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India, has issued a new draft circular in 2025 to stop fake or fraudulent entries in Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDCs) used by Indian seafarers. This step comes after several cases were found where sea service records were … Read more
A Benami RPSL (Recruitment and Placement Services License) refers to a company registered under someone else’s name but operated by another individual or entity. This arrangement is often used to conceal the identity of the actual operator and to bypass legal or regulatory scrutiny. In the shipping industry, whether you are a seafarer, shipowner, charterer, … Read more
The RPSL list (Recruitment and Placement Services License list) is a critical resource for seafarers and shipping companies operating under the regulatory framework of DG Shipping. It ensures transparency and compliance within the maritime industry, helping seafarers identify legitimate agencies and avoid fraudulent operations. Here’s an in-depth look at the latest trends and updates related … Read more