M.S. Notice 26 of 2003

Sub: Promotion of women seafarers in Merchant navy and criteria for selection of candidates for various pre-sea training courses

At present very few Indian women seafarers are joining Merchant Navy. In accordance to Resolution 14 of STCW 1995 Convention and the International Maritime Organisations medium term plan for the integration of women in the maritime sector and expressing support for the organization's aims of promoting the training of women in maritime industry, the Director General of Shipping has decided to specifically consider to highlight the role of women in the seafaring profession and to promote their greater participation in maritime training and at all levels in the maritime industry.

To examine and recommend immediate / intermediate /long term strategy and measures which can be taken to promote more Indian women seafarers , a Committee was constituted with officials from DGS, INSA/MASSA/FOSMA and some of training institutes. The Committee unanimously recommended for age relaxation for girl candidates for 2 years to various pre-sea courses. It was also felt that sufficient awareness and information is not available to young women about Merchant Navy. Therefore, it is necessary to launch a suitable awareness drive to promote Indian women seafarers. It would be desirable to give special treatment to potential women seafarers who want to join pre-sea courses in any of the approved training institutes by Directorate.

After due consideration and keeping in mind objective of promoting women seafarers, the international recommendation and industry's feedback, it has been decided to enhance the age limit by 2 years for all the pre-sea courses as mentioned in M.S. Notice 24 of 2002. All other parameters as prescribed in M.S. Notice 24 of 2002 shall remain common for all candidates including prospective women trainees. This will come into effect from the date of issue of this M.S. Notice.

Sd/-

(Naresh Salecha)

Sr. Dy. Director General of Shipping