In response to the recently issued Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) Circular No. 31 of 2025, the Hind Bharatiya Navik Sena Union (HBNSU) has voiced strong concern over regulatory actions that may destabilize the employment landscape for thousands of Indian seafarers and erode India’s global standing in maritime crewing.
The directive restricts the deployment of Indian seafarers who hold Certificates of Competency (CoC) or Proficiency (CoP) from foreign maritime authorities, even if these flag states are white-listed and STCW-compliant. Stakeholders across the industry have flagged serious implications for seafarer livelihoods, shipowner confidence, and India’s reputation as a democratic maritime power.
The Union, while reaffirming its support for India’s commitment to international conventions such as STCW and SOLAS, expressed concern over the unilateral nature of the decision. According to the appeal, key voices—including shipowners, RPSL companies, training institutions, and seafarer unions—were not consulted, raising questions about transparency and participative governance.
The circular’s immediate effect has been felt by thousands of Indian officers and ratings who possess valid foreign CoCs. Many faces contract termination and unemployability, with no recourse for transition or regularization. This sudden policy shift jeopardizes household incomes and regional economic stability, particularly in communities reliant on seafaring.
Foreign shipowners accustomed to India’s dependable crewing ecosystem have reportedly expressed concern about abrupt regulatory changes. The Union warns that continued uncertainty may prompt shifts in crewing contracts to nations with more stable frameworks, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Eastern Europe.
The appeal underscores the contradiction between the circular’s release and India’s democratic ethos, which traditionally upholds stakeholder dialogue and inclusive policymaking. The Union contends that such exclusionary actions could undermine flagship programs like Sagarmala and the Maritime India Vision 2030.
The Union calls upon the Directorate to:
- Reconsider Circular No. 31 in view of its human and economic impact
- Initiate structured consultations with industry stakeholders
- Uphold inclusive governance and democratic values in policy development
- Protect seafarers with valid CoCs from STCW-compliant nations through bridging solutions
- Establish transitional pathways under DGS oversight to reinstate employability
- Safeguard India’s maritime reputation via transparent and balanced policymaking
- Recognize RPSL agencies as responsible contributors to Indian maritime strength
The Union concludes its statement with a call to replace silos with solidarity. It advocates for policies that honour the commitment, dignity, and expertise of India’s maritime workforce while maintaining compliance with international standards.
“Let dialogue prevail over directives. We urge the Directorate to regulate with compassion, enforce with fairness, and protect the livelihoods and dignity of Indian seafarers,” expressed Pritam Dandwate, Joint General Secretary, HBNSU.
The union remains open to constructive engagement with the Directorate and other stakeholders in pursuit of a balanced and inclusive maritime governance framework.
Marex Media