The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has issued its much-anticipated Order of 2025, introducing robust reforms to elevate India’s maritime safety, sustainability, and training standards. This order is set to impact RPSL companies, training institutes, maritime doctors, and the overall recruitment process for Indian seafarers.
With growing scrutiny on international maritime compliance, the DGS Order 2025 positions India to align more closely with IMO conventions, enhancing both domestic regulation and global trust in Indian maritime operations.
What is DGS Order 2025?
The DGS Order 2025 is an authoritative directive issued to all stakeholders under the jurisdiction of the Indian Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. The order aims to improve compliance protocols, safety enforcement, medical certifications, and audit mechanisms across the sector.
It applies to:
- RPSL (Recruiting and Placement Services License) companies
- DG Shipping-approved doctors
- Maritime training institutes
- Recognized organizations (ROs)
Key Highlights of the Order
| Focus Area | Directive Summary |
| Training Audits | Annual physical and remote audits mandatory for all MTIs |
| Doctor Compliance | Biometric validation and periodic inspections introduced |
| RPSL Firms | Updated digital records submission and stricter manpower norms |
| RO Oversight | Enhanced reporting system for Recognized Organizations |
| Port State Control (PSC) | Reinforced reporting of detentions and deficiencies |
These changes are intended to ensure transparency, accountability, and global parity with maritime regulations like the STCW Convention.
Who Must Comply?
- Recruiting Agents & RPSL Holders:
All RPSL companies must ensure their digital systems comply with DGS protocols. Those registered on Indosearch’s RPSL listing can verify their compliance status. - Approved Maritime Doctors:
DGS-approved doctors must adhere to new biometric ID protocols and undergo audit assessments. Doctors can verify their credentials at Indosearch’s approved medical page. - Recognized Agencies (RA) and Training Institutes:
Institutions must upgrade curriculum delivery platforms and file compliance data electronically. RAs can cross-check their status via Indosearch’s RA listing.
Impact on Indian Seafarers and Employers
The DGS Order 2025 aims to protect seafarers by making recruitment and training more transparent. Agencies failing to follow the new protocols may risk suspension or cancellation of licenses, ensuring only genuine operators continue in the industry.
For seafarers, this means:
- Verified training from audited MTIs
- Safer and more ethical employment offers
- Real-time access to documentation and digital seafarer profiles
Government Oversight & Legal Backing
This order is enforceable under provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, ensuring its legal sanctity. Any non-compliance may result in penalties, license suspension, or blacklisting.
Official notification:
Visit DGS official circular portal
Compliance guidelines under M.S. Notices:
Check M.S. Notices here
Timeline for Compliance
| Stage | Deadline |
| Notification Release | April 2025 |
| Awareness Training (All) | By June 2025 |
| First Level Audits | Start from August 2025 |
| Digital Data Submission | By September 2025 |
| Full Implementation Review | January 2026 |
Why This Matters: A Strategic Maritime Move
With a vision to make India a global maritime power, DGS Order 2025 redefines maritime administration and compliance for the next decade. The move also supports India’s commitment to IMO audits, SOLAS, and STCW 2010 standards.
Through this order, the DGS is building an integrated ecosystem—where recruitment, health certification, training, and audit protocols speak the same digital language.
Conclusion
The DGS Order 2025 is a transformative step toward creating a secure, sustainable, and transparent maritime sector. Whether you’re a seafarer, recruiter, doctor, or trainer, staying compliant isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a step toward excellence.