The Leo Barnes Union of Seafarers of India (LUSI) has issued a formal appeal to the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), urging decentralization of key seafarer verification processes to regional Mercantile Marine Departments (MMDs). The union argues that the current system—requiring physical presence at DGS Mumbai—places disproportionate logistical and emotional strain on seafarers, especially those returning from long voyages.
In their submission, LUSI highlighted that traveling to Mumbai from remote coastal states for the verification of Certificate of Competency (CoC), Certificate of Proficiency (CoP), and Watchkeeping endorsements imposes not only financial burdens, but also emotional hardship, with seafarers often forced to remain away from their families for extended durations due to delays or appointment backlogs.
Proposals by LUSI include:
• Authorizing initial verification procedures at the nearest MMDs across states.
• Reserving DGS Mumbai visits only for exceptional or suspicious cases needing deeper scrutiny.
• Empowering and equipping regional officers to carry out verifications in adherence with DGS protocols.
“This change would be transformative for our seafarers’ welfare and time,” said Mr LP Vimalson, Founder and General Secretary, LUSI. “A decentralized system reflects not just administrative efficiency but also compassion for the people powering our maritime sector.”
Responding to LUSI’s appeal, the Directorate clarified that:
• MMDs are already designated assessment centres for most CoC and CoP-related processes.
• Only basic CoPs for oil, gas, and chemical tankers, along with watchkeeping endorsements, necessitate presence at DGS Mumbai—and only in suspicious cases.
• The Directorate is currently working toward complete digital reform of seafarer examination and certification systems, and LUSI’s recommendations will be reviewed as part of this overhaul.
As digital transformation reshapes maritime administration, LUSI’s advocacy shines a spotlight on the need to ensure reform is inclusive, regionally accessible, and centred on seafarer well-being.
Marex Media