The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) recently strengthened its collaboration with the Indian National Shipowners’ Association (INSA) to enhance the welfare of Indian seafarers and implement necessary maritime reforms. A fruitful meeting was held between the Crew Branch of DGS and INSA representatives, focusing on several pivotal issues affecting Indian seafarers on domestic vessels.
Key Issues Discussed
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Taxation Challenges: One of the primary concerns raised was the complex tax regulations faced by Indian seafarers. These challenges often lead to confusion and financial strain, underscoring the need for clearer guidelines and possible reforms.
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Visa Processing and Documentation: The meeting highlighted inefficiencies in the visa processing procedures affecting seafarers. Emphasis was placed on aligning these processes with the Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID) Conventions to streamline operations and enhance compliance.
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Approval of Articles (AOA) Module: There was a call to review technical and procedural issues related to the AOA module. Concerns included the limited editability of crucial fields like the shipowners’ column, redundancy in form fields, and the cumbersome requirement for six copies of the AOA. Addressing these aspects could lead to a more efficient approval system.
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Immigration Clearance: The discussion also covered the necessity for immigration clearance for coastal vessels operating within harbor limits. Simplifying these requirements is critical for operational efficiency and compliance, ensuring that vessels can operate smoothly along the Indian coast.
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Merit-Based Engagement of Foreign Seafarers: Another significant point was INSA’s suggestion to adopt a merit-based approach for hiring foreign seafarers aboard Indian ships, rather than relying solely on nationality. This change could help in enhancing the skill pool available on Indian vessels.
Commitment to Collaboration
The meeting underscored the mutual commitment between the DGS and INSA to work collaboratively on multiple fronts. By focusing on streamlining regulatory frameworks, enhancing digital systems, and implementing comprehensive welfare measures, both entities aim to uplift the Indian seafarer community.
In summary, the DGS and INSA are taking crucial steps to address ongoing challenges faced by Indian seafarers. Their collaboration signifies a proactive approach to reforming maritime practices and enhancing the overall welfare of the seafaring community in India.
