India: e-Migrate system updates for seafarer communication

Eda Zenic -

The Directorate General of Shipping, India issued shipping circular No. 25 of 2024, detailing updates to the e-Migrate system used for managing the recruitment and placement of Indian seafarers. These updates aim to enhance communication, transparency, and accuracy in the recruitment and employment processes for seafarers.

Key Points

Background and Purpose

  1. Merchant Shipping Rules: According to the Merchant Shipping (Recruitment and Placement of Seafarers) Rules, 2016, Indian RPS agencies are responsible for recruiting and placing seafarers on foreign-flagged vessels. This ensures that seafarers are employed through licensed and registered agencies, protecting their rights and well-being.
  2. Record Keeping: RPS agencies must maintain up-to-date records of all seafarers they recruit or place. These records must be available online for verification by authorities.

Introduction of e-Migrate System

  1. Monitoring and Alerts: The e-Migrate system, introduced in 2017, helps monitor the recruitment process and prevent fraudulent practices. It sends automated alerts to seafarers' registered email addresses regarding their recruitment status, such as sign-on and sign-off details.
  2. Current Issue: The system previously relied only on email notifications, which led to delays or missed updates for seafarers.

New SMS Alert Feature

  1. Enhanced Communication: To improve the timeliness of notifications, the e-Migrate system will now include an automated SMS alert feature. This will send updates directly to seafarers' mobile phones regarding changes in their status or online profile.
  2. Alert Channels: Notifications will be sent via:
    • Automated emails
    • SMS messages
    • Updates in the seafarers' online profiles

Mandatory Information Updates

  1. Port and Country of Joining: RPS agencies are now required to fill in "Port of Joining" and "Country of Joining" fields when a seafarer signs on. This information will be visible in the seafarer's profile and on form - 1. It is crucial for facilitating travel arrangements such as visas and tickets.
  2. Withdrawal of Previous Requirements: The previous requirement to report details for seafarers joining vessels in Iran, UAE, or Malaysia has been withdrawn in light of these new mandatory fields.

Acknowledge Sea Service and Article of Agreement

  1. Procedure for Acknowledgment: Seafarers must use the DG Shipping portal to view and acknowledge their sea service and Article of Agreement details. The steps include:
    • Accessing the Portal: Visit the DG Shipping website and log in using credentials.
    • Viewing and Acknowledging: Navigate to the “View Sea Service and Acknowledge” section to agree or disagree with sign-on and sign-off details.
    • Article of Agreement: The acknowledgment process for the Article of Agreement is similar to the sea service acknowledgment process.

Implementation and Support

  1. Immediate Effect: The circular is effective from the date of issuance, and the changes aim to ensure better communication and accountability.
  2. Support and Queries: Stakeholders can contact the DG Shipping crew branch for assistance or further information.