About Us
The Training Branch of the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, serves as the national regulatory authority for maritime education and training in India. Our primary mandate is to ensure the highest standards of competency, safety, and compliance in seafarer training through robust policy frameworks, accreditation processes, and continuous monitoring.
The Training Branch is responsible for the approval, regulation, and oversight of Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs) across India, in line with the provisions of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
From setting curriculum standards and faculty qualifications to conducting inspections and enforcing compliance, we play a central role in shaping the future of India's maritime workforce.
Key functions include:
- Approving and monitoring DG Shipping-recognized Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs).
- Developing and updating training curriculum and examination frameworks.

Empowering the next generation of maritime professionals
- Certifying qualified trainers and assessors.
- Ensuring compliance with STCW, IMO, and national maritime training standards.
- Issuing training circulars, guidelines, and quality control measures.
With a commitment to safety, quality, and international excellence, the Training Branch works to build a globally competent pool of Indian seafarers, while fostering transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in maritime training.