India issued guidelines for seafarer protection in Iran, UAE, and Malaysia

The Directorate General of Shipping, India has issued a circular addressing the recruitment and placement of Indian seafarers on vessels in Iran, UAE, or Malaysia.

This circular was published on 21 June 2024.

• Regulatory Compliance: Seafarers must be recruited through licensed agencies to ensure adherence to national and international maritime laws.
• Record Maintenance: RPS companies must maintain updated records of seafarers, inform them of their rights, and facilitate agreement inspections.
• Seafarer Welfare: Companies must prevent seafarers from being stranded, ensuring repatriation and support in emergencies.
• e-Migrate System: Launched to regulate seafarer recruitment and monitor transparency.
• Issues Faced: Reports of seafarers facing abandonment and risks in Iran, UAE, and Malaysia due to deceitful practices.
• Reporting Requirements: Incidents must be reported promptly to the Directorate-General for effective resolution.
• Google Form Requirement: RPSL and shipping companies must submit details of seafarers using a specified Google Form.
• Non-compliance Consequences: Failure to comply may result in stringent actions by the Directorate.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

Submission of Details of Seafarers Currently Working in or Scheduled to Join Vessels in Iran, UAE, or Malaysia