Major relief for Indian Seafarers as Centre scraps decades-old SLP requirements

NEW DELHI: In a major relief for Indian Seafarers, the Union Home Ministry on Thursday abolished long-standing requirements of sign-on, sign-off and Shore Leave Passes (SLP) for Indian-flagged vessels operating exclusively in domestic waters.

In a communication to the Joint Secretary (Ports), the Ministry said the procedures had been creating operational hurdles for crew members aboard coastal vessels, dredgers, barges and research ships working within port limits. The letter, signed by Deputy Officer (Immigration) Balbir Singh, noted that seafarers were required to appear in person at immigration offices to issue and renew SLPs every 10 days, disrupting their duties on board.

Ports to maintain records
To streamline operations, the MHA has asked the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to instruct all Port Authorities to maintain updated records of crew and supernumeraries on Indian-flag coastal vessels. The Bureau of Immigration will continue to carry out periodic surprise inspections and obtain crew lists from such vessels. Going forward, local Port Authorities will regulate shore access for crew members.

Sonowal welcomes reform
Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal welcomed the move, calling it a significant step in supporting maritime workers. “Modi government stands strong with India’s seafarers. Under the decisive leadership of Amit Shah, the Home Ministry has abolished decades-old requirements of sign-on, sign-off and SLP for all Indian vessels exclusively operating in Indian waters,” Sonowal said in a post on X.