The Global Seafarers Union of India (GSUI) has voiced serious concern over a new directive issued by the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), which prohibits some of the foreign maritime administrations and their affiliates from conducting or promoting any maritime training in India whether online or offline without prior written approval.
Order No. 08 of 2025, issued on August 1, mandates an immediate halt to all such foreign training activities operating without approval. It further warns that non-compliance could lead to blacklisting and legal action under the Merchant Shipping Act and the Information Technology Act.
GSUI Flags Impact on Indian Seafarers
GSUI has voiced that the sudden enforcement of this directive could severely impact Indian seafarers, many of whom have acquired their Certificates of Competency (CoCs) or Certificates of Proficiency (CoPs) through foreign-affiliated institutions operating in India. "These training routes, which were compliant with the International Maritime Organization’s STCW Convention, had particularly benefitted candidates from economically weaker sections," said Gaurav Porwal, GSUI member and petitioner in the PIL against DG Shipping’s Circular 31 of 2025.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday at a press conference in Navi Mumbai, Porwal further added, “The sudden enforcement of this order, without any transition plan or consultation with maritime stakeholders, will impact thousands of Indian seafarers currently relying on foreign training pathways. Many have already invested time and money into these courses and may now face job losses or invalidation of certifications."
The development comes shortly before the Bombay High Court granted a stay on Circular 31 of 2025, which sought to bar Indian seafarers from sailing with foreign-issued CoCs unless recognized by Indian authorities. GSUI sees the timing of this new order as troubling and lacking due process.
GSUI President and former MLC Balaram Patil emphasized that while the union is not against quality regulations, such policies must involve fair consultation, clear transition plans, and protection for existing seafarers. “Sudden regulatory shifts put careers, families, and even foreign remittance inflows at risk,” he warned.
GSUI Calls for Policy Clarity and Protection
In its response, GSUI has called for a comprehensive and fair approach from DG Shipping. The union has demanded that the government immediately clarify policies for seafarers who have already been trained through foreign systems. It also called for a reasonable transition period for students who are currently enrolled in these programs, and for structured criteria to be published that will allow foreign training entities to seek approval from Indian authorities.
Demand for Transparent Approval Process
Additionally, GSUI urged the government to ensure transparent and consistent communication with the seafaring community to prevent fear and misinformation. Most importantly, the union stressed the need for active participation of seafarers’ unions and maritime training institutes in all future policy discussions.
Appeal for Calm and Clear Communication
According to the GSUI, this is not merely an institutional or regulatory issue, but one that directly threatens the livelihoods of thousands of Indian seafarers. The union has expressed its readiness to pursue legal and democratic routes to seek clarity and resolution if necessary.
