According to the DGMA Seafarers Code of Conduct Compliance Enforcement Manual, issued by theDirector General of Maritime Administration, 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 DGMA 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 Director General of Maritime Administration guidelines, which will come into effect from January 1, 2026. The whole system described within the DGMA Seafarers Code of Conduct Compliance Enforcement Manual states strict disciplinary action … Read more
The provisions regarding penalties within The Seafarers’ Code of Conduct, introduced by the Indian government’s Director General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), 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 DGMA, as well as the Merchant Shipping Act, also … Read more
India’s maritime sector is vital for the effective functioning of the Indian economy. It accounts for approximately 90% of the trade volume. From crude oil to farm goods, everything passes through the port and vessels. The efficiency and reliability of maritime transport are a must for national competitiveness and economic growth. To safeguard the integrity … Read more
The monsoon season creates chaos and hardships for the cargo vessels. Besides, negligence and mismanagement of cargo ships makes the situation worse. It is observed by the maritime authorities that many a time, the cargo is either overloaded, not prepared for emergency, or malfunctioning, which leads to a mishap. To cope with this problem, theDirector … Read more
Breakdown of the Merchant Shipping Act, rules inspections onboard, fining, wages resolutions, legal definitions, desertions and discipline.
India’s maritime ecosystem supports critical sectors such as trade, offshore energy, logistics, and national security. To maintain regulatory oversight when Indian interests charter foreign vessels, the Coastal Shipping Act, 2025 establishes a structured licensing and compliance framework for vessels operating beyond domestic coastal trade. This framework ensures that international maritime operations connected to India remain … Read more
Understanding MS act 2025, covering matters such as seafarer welfare, safety, wages, medical care, dispute resolution, and shipowner obligations.
India’s vast coastline and inland waterways hold immense potential for transforming the country’s logistics and trade landscape. Recognizing this, the Coastal Shipping Act, 2025 mandates the creation of the National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan, a visionary framework designed to steer India’s maritime future toward sustainable growth, economic prosperity, and national security. This blog … Read more