“Genuine Skills Only – DGS Safeguards Indian Seafaring Standards.”

D G Shipping Cracks Down on Fraudulent Seafarer Certificates

In a major move to uphold maritime safety and compliance, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has barred Indian seafarers from sailing with Certificates of Competency (CoC) and Proficiency (CoP) issued by non-recognised foreign maritime authorities. The July 18 circular mandates that all certifications must align with the STCW Convention and be obtained from DGS-approved or mutually recognised institutions. This crackdown targets fraudulent practices by seafarers and rogue Recruitment and Placement Services License (RPSL) agents offering fake certifications. Seafarers holding forged documents face a minimum two-year sailing ban, suspension of their Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC), and blocking of their INDOS number. While some industry players raise concerns over potential job loss, DGS defends the move as essential to preserve the credibility of Indian maritime training and ensure seafarer competence globally.