India’s DG Shipping achieves full STCW compliance in independent 2024 evaluation

MUMBAI : The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), India, has successfully passed an independent evaluation in 2024, affirming its full compliance with the STCW Convention for Seafarer Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping, as mandated by Regulation I/8 and MSC.1/Circ.1449.

The evaluation covered operations at DGS Headquarters, MMDs in Mumbai and Chennai, and key Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs) including AEMA, HIMT, and AMET. It assessed certification systems, digital governance platforms, and alignment with international standards—benchmarked against findings from 2019. The audit recognized several best practices such as:

• Nationwide implementation of the Comprehensive Inspection Program (CIP)
• Initiatives like SagarMeinSamman and SagarMeinYog
• Robust digital systems including e-Governance, INDOS, Exit Exams, and CCTV surveillance
• Use of advanced simulators and VR-based training tools at MTIs

India’s legal framework was noted to be well-aligned with international maritime conventions. The Quality Management Systems at DGS and MMDs are ISO 9001:2015 certified, ensuring standardization and consistency in training and certification.

While the evaluation reported no major non-conformities, it suggested improvements in examiner record standardization, simulator specifications, and faculty development.