In response to increasing instances of malpractices in maritime recruitment, the Indian government has issued a comprehensive 10-point advisory aimed at protecting seafarers from fraud and exploitation. This initiative follows reports revealing that many seafarers have fallen victim to unauthorized recruitment agents promising jobs on foreign-flagged vessels.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has emphasized the need for seafarers to engage only with registered Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) companies to mitigate risks associated with recruitment fraud. The advisory encourages vigilance against impersonators of recognized RPSLs and recommends regular checks of the “Master Checker” for updates on sea service records.
Key components of the advisory include:
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Caution Against Unauthorized Agencies: Seafarers and their families are urged to ensure that they only interact with legitimate RPSL companies.
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Real-Time Verification: The DGS has made a live system available on its website, allowing individuals to check the status of any RPSL, whether it is valid, invalid, or temporarily blocked.
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Financial Caution: The advisory prohibits seafarers from paying for placements, relinquishing passports or Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDC) to unknown parties, or accepting job offers through informal channels such as WhatsApp or social media.
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Awareness of Risks: The DGS outlines the serious challenges faced by those recruited through unauthorized avenues, including lack of support during accidents or emergencies, issues with wage disputes, and a general neglect towards the welfare of seafarers. Such agencies can abandon their responsibilities in critical situations, leaving seafarers stranded or without necessary assistance.
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Reporting Mechanism: The advisory encourages seafarers to reach out to the DGS for any clarifications, support, or to report fraudulent activities in recruitment.
The advisory highlights a distressing trend where Indian seafarers are increasingly vulnerable to abandonment, with a significant number reporting such incidents in 2023, more than seafarers from any other nationality. The DGS’s proactive measures aim to equip seafarers with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the recruitment landscape safely, thereby preventing exploitation and ensuring their rights and welfare are upheld on international maritime platforms.
By implementing these guidelines, the Indian government demonstrates a commitment to the protection of its seafarers, emphasizing the importance of verified recruitment practices and the need for a supportive regulatory environment in the maritime sector.
