India - Special requirements by the Indian Administration

Flag instructions relating to statutory surveys

Flag procedural requirements

General policy

Agreement and scope of authorization

An Agreement has been signed between Recognised Organisation (RO) SA and the Directorate General of Shipping, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways of India.

The Agreement has entered into force on 1st August 2023 and is valid until 31st July 2028. It is attached as Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services.

Authorizations for services outside the scope of the Appendix 1 to this Agreement are set out in Appendix 2 to this Agreement (see Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services) and any further additional authorizations will be dealt with as mutually agreed on a case-by-case basis as and when the need arises.

Load Line: Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) is the “Assigning Authority” for the initial assignment of load line under the International Convention 1966/88 Protocol. Initial assignment of loadline for new construction vessels, together with initial survey and issuance of full term loadline certificate is thus not delegated to Recognised Organisation (RO). In case of change of Flag, IRS issues the full term loadline certificate on satisfactory completion of necessary surveys. The renewal load line survey and subsequent issuance of full term Load Line Certificate is undertaken by Recognised Organisation (RO). The annual load line survey is undertaken by Recognised Organisation (RO). On satisfactory completion of annual load line survey, Recognised Organisation (RO) endorses the load line certificate towards completion of annual load line survey. Further, Recognised Organisation (RO) should ensure that the reports of the annual load line surveys are expeditiously forwarded to IRS for updating their records.

Timelines for delivery of statutory services

(Refer to §3.5 of the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services) and Citizen Charter in attached file)

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall specify timelines for delivery of all services related to Statutory Survey and Certification taking cognizance of the timelines specified in the Citizens Charter issued by the Administration.

Reporting to the Administration

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall establish relevant procedures for reporting to the Administration, not limited for the following:

• The cases of general authorization in accordance with the requirements of the RO Code and the special authorization, in accordance with the requirements stated in relevant Administration Order (DGS)/MS Notice / Circular;

• The classification of ships (assignment of class, changes, and withdrawals, as applicable) to which statutory requirements apply and which will be or has been registered under Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 and to any other vessel to which the said Act is applicable;

• The cases where a ship did not in all respects remain fit to proceed to sea without danger to the ship or persons on board, or presenting unreasonable threat of harm to the environment;

• Immediately upon becoming aware of a situation involving a major deficiency or serious safety-related issue that would normally be considered sufficient to detain a ship from proceeding to sea pending correction;

• Immediately upon becoming aware of a situation aboard a ship or within a company responsible for operating such ships involving a major non-conformity, as defined in the revised Guidelines on the implementation of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code by Administrations (resolution A.1118(30), as may be amended);

• Recognised Organisation (RO) shall inform the Administration, as soon as possible, of any dangerous occurrences, accidents, machinery or structural breakdowns, or failures, which relate to the scope of statutory certification and services as defined in the RO Code or under this Agreement, that they are aware of on a ship and

• On becoming aware of any alterations carried out to the hull, machinery or equipment which affect the stability, tonnage or any statutory certificates.

The above notifications shall contain the name of the company or ship, the IMO number, the official number, if applicable, and a description of the major non-conformity, deficiency, or issue as the case may be;

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall report to the Administration, the names, and official numbers, if applicable, of any ships removed from the Recognised Organisation (RO)'s list of classed/certified ships for which Recognised Organisation (RO) has performed statutory certification and services. The report shall contain a description of the reason(s) for removal from class, and this should be made as soon as possible and in any case within thirty (30) days of the removal becoming effective;

In the cases of transfer of the certification of the ship from one RO to another, the gaining RO shall, within one month from the issuance of the certificates, advise the Administration and the losing RO, of the date of issue of the certificates and confirm the date, place and action taken to satisfy each overdue survey, overdue recommendation and overdue condition of class.

Interpretation, equivalents and exemptions

1. While interpretations of the applicable instruments, as well as the determination of equivalents or the acceptance of substitutes to the requirements of the applicable Instruments or to determine “the satisfaction of the Administration” as required under applicable instruments are the prerogative of the Administration. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall cooperate with the Administration in their establishment as necessary and may apply the IMO interpretations and Circulars, as well as the available IACS Unified Interpretations as the case may be unless provided with written instruction to apply a different interpretation by the Administration. The interpretation of the Administration, however, shall be final and binding.

2. Exemptions and deviations from, and equivalents to, the requirements of the applicable instruments are the prerogative of the Administration and must be approved by the Administration prior to its issuance, if any, by Recognised Organisation (RO).

3. In instances where, temporarily, the requirements of an applicable instrument cannot be met under particular circumstances, Recognised Organisation (RO) will specify such measures or supplementary equipment as may be available to permit the ship to proceed to a suitable port, subject to the approval of the Administration, where permanent repairs or rectifications can be effected or replacement equipment fitted.

Flag State Inspections (FSI) of Indian Vessels

(Merchant Shipping Notice No.4 of 2017, in attached file “MS NOTICE 4 of 2017”)

The Administration has reviewed its Flag State Inspection regime through this MS Notice which is applicable to all vessels (including River Sea Vessels as per DGS Order 18 of 2013 and Indian Coastal Vessels as per DGS Order 1 of 2014).

Scheduled FSI

All vessels shall be submitted to scheduled FSIs, at a frequency depending of the ship type and age.

Indian flag vessels trading abroad and have completed annual/intermediate/renewal statutory surveys as the case may be in foreign shores and is not scheduled to touch Indian shores between 1-3 months after the said surveys shall undergo a “General Examination” equivalent to an Annual Survey by any RO, which has not conducted the said statutory surveys between 1-3 months after the completion of said annual/intermediate/renewal statutory survey. The frequency of such general examination is to be not less than that of FSI. However, in case of port state detention, the Administration reserves the right to increase the frequency of FSI/General examination of said/all vessel(s) managed/owned by the detained vessel’s company.

Exemption from next FSI/General examination may be granted by the Administration in certain conditions.

The FSI and General Examination unlike the Port State Inspection shall be a comprehensive and detailed inspection covering all aspects of statutory certificates issued to the vessel irrespective of the presence/absence of clear grounds.

Un-scheduled FSI

Additionally, unscheduled FSIs may be carried out. However, any vessel which has been subjected to FSI or General examination doesn’t need to be subjected to “FSI by surprise inspection” again, within a period of 6 months from the date of such FSI/General examination, unless otherwise decided by the Administration.

Any FSI undertaken as part of surprise inspection shall not be taken into consideration for the purpose of minimum number of scheduled FSI referred under Scheduled FSI.

Any FSI by surprise after 6 months of the last FSI/General examination may take into consideration (apart from bona-fide complaints) the following parameters prior deciding to conduct the said FSI:

• age of the vessel > 12 years

• and/or managed by a Company whose one of the vessel has been detained under FSI, General examination or PSI in previous 12 months.

Flag State Computerized Information System (FSCIS)

All inspection reports under the General examination and FSI shall be uploaded in this system within 2 working days of the inspection/examination

Verification and monitoring

The compliance of this notice shall be verified during the annual DOC audit of the company and any non-compliance may be notified as Non-Conformity to be completed within a period of 1 Month. The corrective and preventive action should include increased frequency of flag state inspection of the said vessel and/or other vessels managed by the company.

Recognised Organisation (RO) monitoring

When an FSI report is sent to Recognised Organisation (RO) Mumbai, then Recognised Organisation (RO) Mumbai shall sent it to the MO.The MO will review the FSI report and the MO decides to put the ship under Recognised Organisation (RO) monitoring, or not.

Approval of plans, drawings, manuals and booklets

Any plan, drawing, manual or booklet towards the issuance of statutory certification of an existing vessel undergoing change of Flag to India Registry, shall be deemed to be approved by the Indian Administration, if the same is duly approved by any RO as notified by India, on behalf of any other administration. No further approval from the Indian Administration or any other RO is required in these cases, provided no substantial deviation from the applicable national or international instruments, affecting the safety of lives or protection of the environment is reported during the statutory inspection and certification services rendered by the concerned RO.

The Registering authority shall appropriately record the reasons as above, for deeming any plan, drawing, manual or booklet as “approved” by the Indian Administration.

Similarly, any plan, drawing or booklet of a newly constructed ship, may be approved by the concerned RO for the purpose of the statutory certification service, as authorized.

Refer also to DG Shipping Order No 6 of 2013, paragraph 5, as per the attached file “dgsorder6_2013”.

Type approval of products and equipment

Any product, equipment, material or appliances shall be deemed to be accepted by the Indian Administration for the use on its ships, if such product, equipment, material or appliance is certified for its compliance with applicable international instruments by the maritime administration of the country of manufacture (or the EC type approval if applicable), or by any of the RO notified by India, on behalf of the relevant maritime administration and carrying evidentiary test reports, according to the latest IMO codes / guidelines, as applicable.

Refer also to DG Shipping Order No 6 of 2013, paragraph 6, as per the attached file “dgsorder6_2013”.

(DGS Order 17 of 2026)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to undertake, on behalf of the Administration, the inspection, testing, verification, type approval and certification of equipment, materials and appliances manufactured in lndia for use on board ships in accordance with the applicable national and international requirements. Recognised Organisation (RO) may also carry out the necessary examinations, verifications, tests and trials, including those relating to navigational equipment, fire-fighting equipment, life-saving appliances, lights and sound signalling equipment, communication equipment, and other safety or pollution prevention equipment, materials and appliances.

Any Type Approval or Certification issued by an authorized RO on behalf of the Administration shall be accepted for installation on Indian-flagged vessels and on vessels constructed in India or elsewhere, subject to compliance with the applicable statutory, classification society and Flag State requirements of the vessel concerned.

Notification to the Administration

The concerned RO shall notify the nearest Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) and simultaneously to the PSC / FSI cell of the Directorate, immediately upon becoming aware of a situation, during surveys, inspections, audits or otherwise, involving a major deficiency, or serious safety / security / environment related non-conformance, that would normally be considered sufficient to detain a ship from proceeding to sea pending rectification. Principal officers of the MMDs may deal with the case as deemed necessary as per extent rules / guidelines, including re-inspection of the vessel by the departmental surveyors, as necessary. Such notification need to be made fool-proof by a telephone call by the RO to the concerned official of the Administration.

The RO shall report to the Indian Administration in writing the names and official numbers, if applicable, of any ship removed from the RO’s list of classed / certified ships for which the RO had performed statutory certification and services, on behalf of India with reasons thereto.

The concerned RO shall notify the Indian Administration of any extension to the class recommendation, if imposed earlier on any Indian ship, and in any case shall not renew a statutory certificate with any pending class recommendation unless concurrence in this regard is obtained from the Indian Administration.

Refer also to DG Shipping Order No 6 of 2013, paragraph 8, as per the attached file “dgsorder6_2013” and to Corrigendum-3, paragraph 2 as per attached file “Amendment 3 of DGS order 6”.

Exemptions and extensions

Any non-compliance with regulations / convention provisions / deficiency noted during statutory surveys or plan approvals, or even otherwise during change of Flag / new construction, needing exemptions for continued vessel operation, shall be communicated to the Indian Administration along with the recommendation in this regard from the concerned RO and the concurrence of the Indian Administration obtained prior to issuance of statutory certificates / approval of plans / booklets or any exemption thereto, subject to the provisions of the MS Notice 13 of 2012 dated 1^st May 2012, in the attached file “MSnotice13_2012”.

Copy of the certificate / note issued in this regard shall be promptly forwarded to the IRS by Recognised Organisation (RO) to facilitate updating of the centralized vessel history being maintained by the society.

Except for “green channel” cases as provided in MSN 13 of 2012, necessary concurrence need to be obtained from the DGS prior to extending the certificate, under intimation to the IRS for appropriate updating of the records accordingly.

The green channel scheme for extension of surveys as per MS Notice 13 of 2012, shall apply to all ships below 25 years of age, irrespective of the type of ship, subject to them meeting the conditions at paragraph (3) of the MS Notice No. 13 of 2012.

The surveys towards the grant of extension and the exemption from intermediate docking, as per M S Notice No. 13 of 2012 and In-Water Survey (IWS) in lieu of dry docking of cargo vessels, respectively, may be carried out by the “concerned RO” (i.e. a RO with whom the vessel is classed). On satisfactory completion of surveys, the “concerned RO” may grant the provisional extension (as per MS Notice 13 of 2012) or endorse the Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate towards intermediate docking (as per In-Water Survey (IWS) in lieu of dry docking of cargo vessels), as applicable.

In case of those ships that do not qualify for green channel scheme as per the above revised criteria, the application for extension of surveys shall be made to the Directorate along with a report of survey carried out by the “concerned RO” for the purpose of extension and their recommendation. In such cases, the “concerned RO” shall carry out a detailed survey of the ship in accordance with MS Notice no.13 of 2012, and hand over their survey report, findings and clear recommendation to the owners for submission to the Directorate.

Refer also to DG Shipping Order No 6 of 2013, paragraph 9, as per the attached file “dgsorder6_2013”, to Corrigendum-3, paragraph 4 as per attached file “Amendment 3 of DGS order 6” and to Corrigendum-4 as per attached file “Corrigendum4toDGorder6”.

Qualification of surveyors

Refer to the paragraph 10 and specifically 10.3 of DG Shipping Order No 6 of 2013 (in the attached file “dgsorder6_2013”) for the minimum requirements for qualification of Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyors when carrying out delegated statutory functions on behalf of the Indian Administration.

Refer also to paragraph 3.2 of Corrigendum-3, as per attached file “Amendment 3 of DGS order 6” for categories of Surveyors which can only undertake statutory surveys on non-convention ships below 300 gt employed exclusively in the coast of India.

Registration process

(Merchant Shipping Notice No.30 of 2013, see attached file “DGS Notice 30_2013”)

For SOLAS and non-SOLAS vessels, once the “Provisional Certificate of Registry” has been issued by the Registrar of India, Recognised Organisation (RO) may issue short term statutory certificates for 3 months in order the owner may approach the flag Administration to obtain permanent Certificate of Registry.

This procedure is applicable for first direct voyage for permanent registry of vessel (which apply for conventional & non conventional vessels).

The model of template certificates to be issued to non-SOLAS ships are in attached files as follows:

• Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate (“SCO cert”)

• Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate (“SEQ cert”) and Form E (“SEQ Form E”)

• Cargo Ship Radio Certificate (“SRT cert”) and Form R (“SRT FormR”)

For SOLAS ships, the models are available in Certificate Editor.

Refer also to DGS Order No. 01 of 2026 in attached file for criteria on age norms and other qualitative parameters for registration/operation of vessels.

Prohibition on use of Single Use Plastics

(Administration letter dated 16/10/2019)

A ban is imposed on single use plastic on Indian ships and foreign ships while in Indian waters, as per terms and conditions mentioned in the letter in attached file “DGS Order No.05 of 2019.pdf”.

Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyors during surveys, inspections and audits of Indian ships shall ensure that single use plastics are not found/stored on board any Indian ship.

Electronic Certificates

(Engineering Circular No 07 of 2017 dated 18/12/2017 in attached files)

This Circular is applicable only to Statutory Certificates issued by Recognized Organizations to Cargo vessels on behalf of the Indian Administration.

This Circular is applicable to the categories of Statutory certificates detailed in IMO “List of Certificates and Documents required to be carried on board ships 2017” issued vide FAL.2/Circ.131MEPC.1/Circ.873MSC.1/Circ.1586 LEG.2/Circ.3 dated 17 July 2017, as amended. Recognised Organisation (RO) is permitted to issue only those Statutory E-Certificates for which Recognised Organisation (RO) is respectively authorized for, as per the authorization granted by Indian Administration via valid agreement and DGS Orders/circulars/notices issued from time to time.

The electronic certificate shall include required security features detailed in IMO “Guidelines for the use of Electronic Certificates” (FAL5/Circ.39/Rev.2 dated 20th April 2016).

Recognised Organisation (RO) issuing electronic certificates and Owner or Manager of the ship shall ensure the availability of detailed procedure/instructions for verifying the information contained in the electronic certificate, including confirmation of periodic endorsements, when necessary, on board the ship. Verifying means a reliable, secure and continuously available process to confirm the authenticity and validity of an electronic certificate using the unique tracking number and other data contained on or embedded in the electronic certificate.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall inform the Administration within 15 days of issue of this circular, the categories of certificates (detailed in IMO “List of Certificates and Documents required to be carried on board ships 2017" that is intended to issue in electronic form. This information is required to be communicated to the IMO by the Administration through the relevant module in the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS) as per Clause 6 of FAL.5/Circ.39/Rev.2 for information and circulation among member states.

Dual classed vessels

In case of dual classed vessels, and even in cases where a vessel is single classed, it may be possible that one Recognized Organization has issued a Statutory Certificate in electronic form and owner/operator may opt to carry out Annual/Periodic/intermediate surveys done by another RO or Administration Surveyors.

In all such cases the following procedures may be adopted for endorsement of an electronic Statutory Certificate issued by a RO other than the one conducting the annual/intermediate/periodic surveys:

1. Conduct of Annual/Intermediate/Periodic survey by a RO which has not issued the said statutory certificate in e-format:

   • RO conducting the said survey to verify the authenticity of the e-certificate.

   • Carry out the survey.

   • After satisfactory completion of the said survey, endorse the print out of the e-statutory certificate for the particular survey (1stAnnual/2ndAnnuaI/Intermediate/Periodical and so on) and a survey report indicating the type (SEQ. SRT and so on); the nature of the survey (1st/2nd/3rd/4th Annual/Intermediate/Periodical); date of endorsement; name of the office and surveyor conducting the survey and place of survey to be issued to the Master.RO which conducted the said survey to forward a copy of the said survey report electronically to the RO which has issued the e-statutory certificate within one working day of completion of the said survey.

   • RO which has issued the said statutory certificate in e-format shall ensure that the said endorsement is reflected on the e-statutory certificate downloadable from their website within 2 working days of the receipt of the report.

2. In case the survey is completed by the Administration Surveyor:

   • Surveyor to verify the authenticity of the e-certificate.

   • Carry out the survey.

   • After satisfactory completion of the said survey, endorse the print out of the statutory e-certificate for the particular survey(1stl2nd/3rd/4th AnnuaI/Intermediate/Periodical).

   • Issue a report to the Master indicating type of survey (SEQ/SRT/IOPP/IAPP and so on); the nature of survey (1st /2nd/3rd/4th Annual/Intermediate/Periodic); date of endorsement; name of the Mercantile Marine Department and the surveyor conducting the survey and place of survey.

   • Owner/Manager/Master to forward the report within one working day to the RO which has issued the said e-statutory certificate.

   • The RO which has issued the said statutory certificate shall ensure that the said endorsement is reflected on the e-statutory certificate downloadable from their website within 2 working days after receipt of such report.

Issuance of Short Term statutory e-certificates

There may be situations such as Port State detentions necessitating issuance of short term certificate by a RO after due concurrence of the competent authority in the Directorate General of shipping.

Under such situations, the RO attending the vessel may issue short term statutory certificate and the necessary attachments to the certificate in electronic format and ensure that the details of same is available in its website.The same has to be informed immediately to the RO which has issued the full-term certificate.The RO (which has issued the full-term statutory certificate earlier) on receipt of such report shall ensure that the full-term certificate is withdrawn from their online system and necessary updating indicating withdrawal is reflected on the website.

The RO issuing full term certificate subsequently to inform immediately to the RO which had issued the short-term certificate so that short term certificate can be withdrawn by the RO who issued the same.

Statutory surveys

Refer to §4.2 and §4.4 of DG Shipping Order No 6 of 2013 (in the attached file “dgsorder6_2013”).

The intermediate surveys of Safety Equipment (SEQ) of all Indian ships while in India, shall be undertaken exclusively by the surveyors of the Mercantile Marine Departments, unless the concerned Principal Officer considers it necessary to delegate this survey to the IRS in lieu thereof, on a case by case basis, on account of specific exigencies.

All other statutory surveys can be undertaken by any of the ROs notified by the Administration, at the choice of the concerned ship owner. However, the renewal surveys of the Safety Construction (SAFCON), Safety Radio (SRT) and MARPOL Annex-I (lOPP) of Indian ships while being undertaken in India shall have the compulsory participation of a surveyor from the Administration. The ROs undertaking the above surveys in India are advised to intimate the nearest Mercantile Marine Department well in advance, to facilitate participation of the Administration surveyor in such surveys, subject to case by case waiver by the concerned Principal Officer on account of specific exigencies.

Guidance on “to the satisfaction of the Administration”

(Merchant Shipping Notice No. 15 of 2023)

Whilst the purpose of the Merchant Shipping Notice No. 15 of 2023 is to further provide Regulation wise guidance on the arrangements that are to be ‘to the satisfaction of the Administration’ it is recognized that this is not appropriate to provide prescriptive guidance or instruction for all requirements due to the number of factors that have to be taken into consideration. In such cases the technical justification for acceptance will be considered by Competent Authority in the Directorate on a ‘case by case’ basis; for delegated items these should be supported by the Recognized Organization in the first instance.

The Annexures to the Merchant Shipping Notice No. 15 of 2023 details the guidance on implementation of requirements in IMO conventions that contain references “to the satisfaction of the Administration” or “to be specified by the Administration.

Orders, Circulars and Notices

The following sites are to be verified for DGS India updated Orders, Circulars and Notices or to contact CD for updated information from the Administration:

• Orders at https://www.dgshipping.gov.in/Content/DGSOrders.aspx

• Circulars at https://www.dgshipping.gov.in/Content/DGSCirculars.aspx

• Notices at https://www.dgshipping.gov.in/Content/MSNotices.aspx

the related survey procedure is updated with applicable important latest Orders, Circulars and Notices as and when received.

LL 66

Load Line certificate

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

SOLAS 74

Cargo Ship Safety Construction Certificate

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Survey of tail shafts

1. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall strictly follow the procedures of UR Z.21 for survey of propeller shafts and tube shafts.

2. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall carry out propeller shafts and tube shafts extension surveys as per UR Z.21 and forward report to Directorate for concurrence.

3. Ship owners / managers shall directly approach Recognised Organisation (RO) for extension of propeller shafts and tube shafts surveys as per UR Z.21 and concurrently submit application to DGS with applicable processing fees for extension as per MS Notice 21 of 2011 dated 20/07/2011.

4. Ship owners / managers shall make application to Directorate for overdue propeller shafts and tube shafts surveys with applicable processing fees as per MS Notice 21 of 2011 dated 20/07/2011.

For further information, refer to the Engineering Circular No. 01 of 2016 in the attached file “EngineeringCircularNo.01of2016”.

In-Water Survey (IWS) in lieu of dry docking of cargo vessels

Refer to the MS Notice No: 1 of 2016 in the attached file “MSnotice1of2016”.

Vessels covered under Enhanced Survey Program (ESP)

For ESP vessels of less than 15 years of age, alternate inspections of the vessels bottom, not conducted in conjunction with its renewal survey, may be carried out by an IWS with the vessel afloat. Based on a request from the vessel owner(s), Recognised Organisation (RO) may carry out the IWS, in accordance with the “International code on the Enhanced Programme of inspections during Surveys of bulk carriers and oil tankers, 2011 (ESP Code), as amended”, and the provisions / guidelines applicable as per the Recognised Organisation (RO) rules.

For ESP vessels of 15 years of age and over, inspection of the outside of the vessel’s bottom during intermediate surveys and renewal surveys shall be carried out with the vessel in dry-dock.

Vessels other than those covered under paragraph 3.1.2.1

The inspection of the outside of the vessel’s bottom during renewal surveys shall be carried out with the vessel in dry-dock.

Alternate inspections of the vessel’s bottom, not conducted in conjunction with the renewal survey, may be carried out by an IWS with the vessel afloat.

Based on a request from the vessel owner(s), Recognised Organisation (RO) may carry out the IWS in accordance with the applicable Recognised Organisation (RO) rules / procedures / guidelines, subject to the following conditions:

1. The vessel has an appropriate and valid notation from Recognised Organisation (RO) for carrying out an IWS in lieu of an out of water docking.

2. The underwater portion of the hull structure is protected by a suitable coating of adequate thickness, valid till the dry-docking during renewal survey.

3. The thickness measurement of the underwater hull structure, and the internal examination and close-up survey of all tanks and spaces, as per the respective class requirements for an intermediate survey, should be preferably completed before an IWS. In case an IWS is held before the completion of the above mentioned activities, an endorsement towards intermediate docking survey shall be done only after these activities are completed with satisfactory results, within the due date for docking survey.

4. No repair or renewal work for the hull structure or fittings, and, no condition of class (CoC) on the hull structure or fittings, either of which necessitate the bottom survey in a dry-dock, exists.

5. If a vessel does not have notation as prescribed hereinabove, such a notation may be obtained from Recognised Organisation (RO) at the time of drydocking, to avail the benefit of an IWS during the intermediate surveys. However, as a one-time measure, a vessel may undergo an IWS in lieu of an intermediate dry-docking, provided Recognised Organisation (RO) ensures that the vessel complies with all the class requirements for an IWS and this MS Notice, and in all such cases, the vessel shall obtain the appropriate notation at the next dry-dock survey.

IWS requirements

Prior to each IWS, a request should be made by the vessel owner(s) to the Administration and Recognised Organisation (RO), indicating information such as date and location of the IWS, general information on the diving company and a schedule for undertaking the IWS, coupled with a signed statement confirming that the vessel has not suffered any damage to the underwater hull and fittings due to grounding or contact or any other reason.

The IWS should be conducted in accordance with the following requirements:

1. At the time of an IWS, the vessel master or owner’s representative should provide a declaration to Recognised Organisation (RO), of all suspected or actual damage to the hull that has occurred since the previous drydocking, as well as a declaration that the underwater portion of the hull structure is protected by a suitable paint scheme of an adequate thickness, valid till the dry-docking during renewal survey.

2. The proposed survey site should be in a protected location, with calm clear water providing good underwater visibility. Sufficient visibility shall be available to enable the surveyor to ascertain if the hull requires repairs / renewals that necessitate the bottom survey in a dry-dock. Special attention should also be given to the effects of current and tides.

3. The hull should be clean for an external survey and the Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor should be satisfied that the method and quality of pictorial presentation is satisfactory and that the information obtained enables a reliable assessment to be made of the condition of the hull and fittings to decide whether dry-docking is needed or not. The survey should be discontinued if the conditions or equipments deteriorate to the extent that the transmitted pictures and/or communications are no longer acceptable.

4. An examination of the entire vessel below the waterline should be carried out by an approved diving company acceptable to Recognised Organisation (RO), using closed circuit television with a two-way communication capable of being monitored by the surveyor as required.

5. Where practicable, the IWS should be carried out while the vessel is in a light operating condition to facilitate the survey.

6. An examination of the outside of the shell plating above the waterline and exposed portions of appendages should be carried out by the surveyor. Means should be provided to enable the surveyor to accomplish this visual examination. The extent of underwater inspection by Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyor should be sufficient to include all items which would normally be examined if the vessel was in dry-dock.

7. When a defect or deterioration or damage is detected or suspected as a result of an IWS, or subsequent to an internal examination of spaces, or thickness measurement, or from the master’s statement, the internal structure should be examined as considered necessary to clarify or confirm the findings. In such cases, the surveyor may require that the vessel be drydocked to undertake a detailed survey, or to carry out necessary repairs / renewal.

8. Any required repairs should be carried out to the satisfaction of the attending surveyor.

Endorsement of statutory certificates and reporting

On satisfactory completion of an IWS the statutory certificate(s) may be endorsed towards the completion of an intermediate bottom survey. Thereafter, Recognised Organisation (RO) shall forward a detailed report regarding the condition of the vessel, alongwith a compliance of the stipulations as at Vessels covered under Enhanced Survey Program (ESP) to IWS requirements, the survey findings and its recommendation for an acceptance of IWS, in lieu of intermediate dry docking, to the Administration, for an ex-post-facto approval.

Lifting Appliances and Anchor Handling Winches - SOLAS Regulation II-1/3-13

(Merchant Shipping Notice No. 02 of 2026)

SOLAS Reg. II-1/3-13 paragraphs 2.1, and 2.4 do not apply to lifting appliances which have a safe working load (SWL) below 1,000 kg. However, for all lifting appliances with a safe working load below 1,000 kg, shipowners and operators should assess their usage and associated risks and incorporate procedures for inspection and maintenance into the shipboard Safety Management System (SMS) and these lifting appliances shall be permanently marked and provided with documentary evidence for the SWL.

Cargo Ship Safety Equipment Certificate

Authorization

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Lifeboat on-load release and retrieval systems

SOLAS Chapter Ill, Regulation 1.5 is applicable to all lifeboat on-load release and retrieval mechanisms fitted on board Indian vessels and must comply with the SOLAS, LSA code as applicable not later than the first scheduled dry-docking after 1 July 2014, and in any case not later than 1 July 2019.

Non compliant lifeboat on-load release and retrieval mechanisms have to be replaced / modified or dealt with as per the guidelines given in MSC.1/Circ.1392 as applicable.

The requirements of SOLAS Chapter Ill, Regulation 1.5 do not apply to the release and retrieval mechanisms of rescue boats fitted on board vessels.

For further information, refer to the Engineering Circular No. 01/2015 dated 02/03/2015, in the attached file “EngineeringCircularNo.01-2015”.

Fire protection, detection and extinction equipment

The periodical maintenance and inspection routines of all fire protection, detection and extinction systems and appliances onboard any lndian ship, with effect from 1^st June 2013 shall be carried out in accordance with the ship’s maintenance pIan, which should include the minimum elements listed in sections 4 to 10 of the IMO MSC.1/Circ.1432 on “Revised guidelines for the maintenance and inspection of fire protection systems and appliances”, as applicable.

In case of fixed carbon dioxide systems, the comprehensive instructions provided in the guidelines for the maintenance and inspections of fixed carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems (MSC.1/Circ.1318), and, for portable or semi-portable fire extinguishers, the improved guidelines for marine portable fire extinguishers (Resolution A.951(23)) shall be additionally referred, the salient extracts of which are provided under paragraphs 6 and 7 of the Engineering Circular No.6 of 2013 (refer to the attached file “EngineeringCircularNo.6of2013”).

If a fire protection system is under repair, then suitable arrangements acceptable to Recognised Organisation (RO), shall be made to ensure safety is not diminished.In cases where Recognised Organisation (RO) determines that the equipment does not comply with the requirements of the corresponding mandatory regulations, they must approach the Directorate for an authorization for the issuance of the relevant conditional statutory certificate prior to permit the vessel to operate.

Certain maintenance procedures and inspections may be performed by competent crew members, while others should be performed by authorised service agencies.

Authorised service agency means a FFA service station approved for the purpose by the Directorate General of Shipping, while the ship is in India. If the servicing is done outside India, the FFA service station must be certified by any Recognised Organization authorised by the GOI.

For further requirements related to the following, refer also to this circular:

• Testing of foam samples

• Hydrostatic testing of pressure cylinders

• Portable and semi-portable fire extinguishers

• Fixed gas fire extinguishing system

  The periodical inspection and maintenance of fixed gas fire extinguishing systems shall be broadly guided by the IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1432 - “Revised guidelines for the maintenance and inspection of fire protection systems and appliances”. However, in case of fixed carbon dioxide fire extinguishing systems, the IMO Circular MSC.1/Circ.1318, “Guidelines for the maintenance and inspections of fixed carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems” shall be additionally referred to for specific guidance.

  Hydrostatic testing for the fixed CO₂ system shall be carried out at test facilities approved by the Chief Controller of Explosives in accordance with the Gas Cylinder Rules 2004, as amended, and as promulgated by the GOI. The test shall be witnessed and certificate endorsed by the “competent person”, if approved by the DGS and by a surveyor of the Administration or recognized RO as the case may be, if the facility is not approved by the Directorate General of Shipping.

LRIT

LRIT which is required as per SOLAS should operate without any failure. Any failure without exemption or valid justification may attract the restriction on vessels SEQ certificate.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is to verify the monthly report of vessels LRIT which shall be available on board as per circular NT/RADI0/01/2013 and shall meet reporting / acceptable justification mentioned in the letter from the Administration dated 01/12/2015 (see the attached file “Letter01122015_LRIT”) prior endorse / issuance of SEQ certificates.

Immersion suits & anti-exposure suits

(NT Circular No. NT/LSA/01/2017)

Refer to attached file “NT CIRCULAR” concerning monthly inspection of immersion suits and anti-exposure in accordance with MSC/Circ.1047.

Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

LRIT

Many cases vessel’s LRIT works with the vessel’s SAT C, which is a part of SRC. Such cases failure of LRIT may even lead to failure of SAT-C, which may attract restrictions on vessel’s SRC.

Recognised Organisation (RO) is to verify the monthly report of vessels LRIT which shall be available on board as per circular NT/RADI0/01/2013 and shall meet reporting / acceptable justification mentioned in the letter from the Administration dated 01/12/2015 (see the attached file “Letter01122015_LRIT”) prior endorse / issuance of SRC certificates.

Testing and maintenance of EPIRB and other GMDSS radio equipment

(NT-Radio Circular No. 10 of 2023)

It is observed during annual and renewal safety radio surveys on board ships that, firms not approved by DG Shipping are carrying out the testing, repairing and maintenance of EPIRBs and issuing annual and five-yearly Shore-based Maintenance certificates (SBMC). Same time testing of other GMDSS radio equipment are also done by attending radio technicians from these not approved radio firms.

It is emphasized that annual testing and maintenance of EPIRB, and testing of other GMDSS radio equipment on board ships during safety radio surveys should always be carried out by a DG Shipping approved service station or approved shore-based maintenance facility.

Recognised Organisation (RO) surveyors are advised to ensure strict compliance with this circular during annual/periodical/renewal safety radio survey of ships.

Passenger Ship Safety Certificate

Reserved.

Others

Non-Convention Cargo Ships

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorized for survey and certification work of cargo ships of less than convention size (e.g. Cargo Ship Construction/Equipment/Radio certificates etc.) under the applicable MS Rules. Recognised Organisation (RO) is not authorized to issue Exemption certificate.

Implementation of Non-convention Cargo ship certificates into Certificate Editor is under progress.

Refer also to Registration process.

Vessels operating in Indian waters certified under SPS Code or MODU Code

(Refer to DGS Order No. 20 of 2022 and Addendum 3 dated 16/09/2024)

This Order is intended to provide guidelines for certification and documentation requirement for vessels operating in Indian waters (Indian and foreign) certified under SPS Code or MODU Code 1989 or 2009, carrying more than 12 persons other than Master and crew of the vessel.

The requirements are applicable to self-propelled as well as non-self-propelled vessels irrespective of their size (GT) or the propulsion power (KW).

MARPOL 73/78

Annex I. IOPP certificate

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Annex II. NLS certificate

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Annex IV. ISPP certificate

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Refer to Merchant Shipping Notice No. 13 of 2023 in attached files.

Annex VI

IAPP, EIAPP and IEE Certificates

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Data Collection System for fuel oil consumption of ships

(M.S. Notice No.07 of 2021)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to perform the following statutory services:

• Reviewing of SEEMP Part II and issuance of Confirmation of Compliance, (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 5, para. 4.5)

• Verification of reported data, (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 22A)and Issuance of Statement of Compliance (MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 5, para. 4.5)

The submission of reported data to the IMO Ship Fuel Oil Consumption Database ((MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 22A, para. 9) is the responsibility the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

EEDI

(M.S. Notice No.07 of 2021)

The attained EEDI shall be calculated taking into account guidelines developed by IMO and can be verified based on the EEDI technical file by any RO with which the ship is classed.

For each ship to which Regulation 22 and 24 applies, the RO verifying the attained EEDI shall report to the Administration via electronic communication, the required and attained EEDI values and relevant information. Within 7 months after completing survey required under Regulation 5.4 of MARPOL Annex VI, or within 7 months following 1st April 2022 for a ship delivered prior to 1st April 2022.

EEXI and CII

(M.S. Notice No.07 of 2021)

EEXI

The attained EEXI shall be verified, based on the EEXI technical file by any RO with which the ship is classed. However, the ship-owner shall forward the data related to attained and required EEXI electronically to IRS for maintaining a central database.

CII

On or before 1st January 2023, the SEEMP is required to be reviewed by a RO which has reviewed SEEMP Part II, and shall include:

1. a description of the methodology that will be used to calculate the ship's attained annual operational CII required by regulation 28 of MARPOL Annex VI and the processes that will be used to report this value to the Administration;

2. the required annual operational CII, as specified in regulation 28 of MARPOL Annex VI, for the next 3 years;

3. an implementation plan documenting how the required annual operational CII will be achieved during the next 3 years; and

4. a procedure for self-evaluation and improvement.

Upon satisfactory review, a Confirmation of Compliance is to be issued by the RO for the ship, which is to be retained on-board the ship.

The ship shall report to the RO, which has reviewed the SEEMP, the attained annual operational CII, via electronic communication and using a standardized format to be developed by the Organization by 29th February 2024 for Calendar year 2023 and thereafter by 28/29th February every year for previous calendar year.

The attained annual operational CII shall be documented and verified against the required annual operational CII to determine operational carbon intensity rating A, B, C, D or E, indicating a major superior, minor superior, moderate, minor inferior, or inferior performance level, by the RO, taking into account Resolution MEPC.339 (76).

After satisfactory completion of the verification, the RO shall issue a Statement of Compliance related to fuel oil consumption reporting and operational carbon intensity rating valid till 31st May of the calendar year next to the data reporting year.

In case a ship is rated as D for three consecutive years or rated as E, the ship shall develop and submit by 30th April to RO issuing the Statement of Compliance, a plan of corrective action objectively stating as to how the energy efficiency shall be enhanced to meet the CII rating. The RO after a review shall submit the plan of corrective action to the Administration by 15th May for its approval and once approved, RO is to ensure that SEEMP is revised reflecting the same.

By 31st May of every calendar year thereafter, the Company shall submit the verified CII data to IRS.

Certification

Ships of 400 GT and above on which EEXI or Operational CII requirements do not apply: The RO shall issue a revised IEEC in the new format attached to MARPOL Annex VI without any additional visit.

For ships to which only EEXI requirements are applicable but not Operational Carbon Intensity requirements: The RO shall issue IEEC in the new format as and when compliance is achieved by for ship but not later than first annual, intermediate or renewal IAPP survey whichever is the first after 1st January 2023.

For ships to which both EEXI and Operational Carbon Intensity requirements are applicable: The RO shall issue IEEC in new format by 1st January 2023 in case only SEEMP requirements for CII are met and then again IEEC Certificate when EEXI requirements are met but in this case not later than first annual, intermediate or renewal IAPP survey whichever is the first after 1st January 2023.

Change of flag

The RO carrying out change of flag surveys shall ensure that fuel consumption data and/or data related to operational CII (reviewed by previous RO, in case of change of RO) has been submitted by previous Owners (in case of change of owners/managers) prior issuance of IEEC.

With effect from 1st July 2024:

• in case a ship has been rated “D” in the previous year, the RO shall ensure prior issuing IEEC, owners/managers plans to enhance the CII rating and get its approval from the Administration.

• no ship to be given IEEC, if a the ship has been rated E as per Operational Carbon Intensity for any of the previous years or rated D for three previous years in any order. The case is to be reported to the Administration.

Biofuels

(Merchant Shipping Notice No. 14 of 2023)

In accordance with MEPC.1/Circ.795/Rev.6 (Unified Interpretation to MARPOL Annex VI), a biofuel is a fuel oil which is derived from biomass and hence includes, but is not limited to, processed used cooking oils, fatty-acid-methyl-esters (FAME) or fatty-acid-ethyl-esters (FAEE), straight vegetable oils (SVO), hydro-treated vegetable oils (HVO), glycerol or other biomass to liquid (BTL) type products.

Requirements of bunker delivery note

No biofuels shall be supplied to ships in unblended or blended form without having been certified by an international certification scheme, meeting its sustainability criteria. The Sustainability Schemes are International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) and Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) and equivalent.

A Proof of Sustainability or similar documentation mentioned above should be provided along with the Bunker Delivery Note, to facilitate the verification of the reported biofuel consumption.

Approval by RO

Recognised Organisation (RO) can recommend certification of a ship to operate on biofuels subject to compliance to the Merchant Shipping Notice No. 14 of 2023.

A shipowner or manager intending to use biofuel or its blends shall submit to Recognised Organisation (RO) the following documents:

1. Details and particulars of the ship(s) on which the biofuel(s) will be used, including intended IC engines and machinery; No Biofuel blend is to be used for emergency equipment like life boat engine, emergency generator engine, and emergency fire pump engine.

2. Specifications, MSDS and analyses of the proposed range of biofuel(s) or blends;

3. Fuel specification and procurement methodology.

4. Risk Assessment as detailed in §20 of the Merchant Shipping Notice No. 14 of 2023 along with details and particulars of any proposed modifications to fuel storage arrangements, fuel systems and equipment, IC engines; boilers, gas turbines and associated machinery;

5. Arrangement of the fuel service tanks to meet SOLAS Regulation II- 1/26.11;

6. Fuel system material and coating specifications;

7. Copies of any biofuel specifications, agreements and communications with the OEMs;

8. Shipboard operational procedure is to be provided which may be part of the SMS manual and shall include procedure for procurement, availability test result, storage of biofuel blend, frequency of cleaning of fuel filters, inspection of storage tanks, monitoring of transfer lines and associate dipping & fitting sand any other requirements specified by the manufacturers of engines/equipment. The procedure shall also include logging/monitoring of all relevant engine parameters, maintenance, and checks in consultation with equipment manufacturer. It has to include list of operational biofuel compatibility and stability checks, as applicable to the range of fuels used on board, together with detailed fuel changeover procedures appropriate for all the installed machinery and equipment that may use biofuels and any specific instructions for Master, Chief Engineer, or crew.

NOx Certification

Fuel oil which is a blend of not more than 30% by volume of biofuel and which does not require changes to its NOx critical components or settings/operating values outside those as given by that engine’s approved Technical File, will be considered falling under Regulation 18.3.1 of MARPOL Annex VI and there is no change in IAPP certificate or supplement necessary.

Fuel oil which is a blend of more than 30% by volume of biofuel and which does not require changes to its NOx affecting components or settings/operating values outside those as given by that engine’s approved technical file, such blends may be allowed to be used onboard without having to undertake the assessment as given in the Regulation 18.3.2.2.

Fuel oil which is a blend of more than 30% by volume of biofuel and which requires changes to its NOx affecting components or settings/operating values outside those as given by that engine’s approved technical file:

1. The NOx assessment required by Regulation 18.3.2.2 may be undertaken using the on-board simplified measurement method in accordance with 6.3 of the NTC or using the direct measurement and monitoring method in accordance with 6.4 of the NTC.

2. Recognised Organisation (RO) shall verify the proposal for NOx measurement procedures and issue a short-term IAPP certificate with validity commensurate with the trial period but not exceeding 3 months, with an annotation stating that it has been issued for conducting trials in accordance with Regulation 3.2 of MARPOL Annex VI.

3. Upon satisfactory trials amended NOx technical file is to be approved and corresponding EIAPP certificate to be placed on board. Subsequent full term IAPP certificate shall be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO), harmonizing validity with other statutory certificates.

Permission to use Sustainable Biofuels and Its Blends Fuel Oil

Based on the review of above submissions and an inspection as considered fit, Recognised Organisation (RO) may issue a “Permission to use Sustainable Biofuels and Its Blends Fuel Oil” to the ships in the format attached as an annexure to the Merchant Shipping Notice No. 14 of 2023 and forward a copy of same to Competent Authority in Directorate for records.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall verify the annual fuel consumption and CII based on the BDN copies and Proof of Sustainability of the biofuel as submitted by the Ship owner/manager. Collection and reporting of fuel oil data is to be done as per Merchant Shipping Notice No. 07 of 2021. However, blend ratio of the biofuel blend is to be included in the report.

Exemptions for Unmanned Non-Self-Propelled (UNSP) barges

(Merchant Shipping Notice No. 12 of 2023)

The shipowner or operator should apply to Recognised Organisation (RO), for exemption(s) with relevant information on the exemption(s) conditions for UNSP barges and relevant drawings (General Arrangement Plan, Capacity Plan and any other plans or documents, as necessary).

After a satisfactory review of the submitted plans and information, a survey of the UNSP barge should be carried out to confirm if the actual arrangements on board comply with the exemption conditions, as appropriate.

Certificate for exemption of a UNSP barge from certain survey and certification requirements under MARPOL Annexes I, IV and or VI should be issued by Recognised Organisation (RO).

All exemptions issued are required to be uploaded on IMO GISIS platform and accordingly Recognised Organisation (RO) shall forward a pdf copy of certificate along with relevant details for uploading on GISIS to Engineering Wing of the Directorate at eng-dgs@nic.in within15 days of issuance of such certificate.

Electronic Record Books (ERB) under MARPOL

(Merchant Shipping Notice No. 03 of 2024)

The Electronic Record Books must be type approved by Recognized Organisations in accordance with DGS Order 6 of 2013 and RO Agreement for meeting the technical and operational requirements of Resolution MEPC.312(74).

After fitment of ERB on board an Indian ship, Recognised Organisation (RO) must verify the type approval certificate issued by an RO and meeting the technical and operational criteria contained in Resolution MEPC.312(74), and issue a “Declaration of MARPOL Electronic Record Book” in the format annexed to Resolution MEPC.312(74).

BWM Convention

BWM Plan

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to approve the BWM Plans.

BWM Plans may be approved in compliance with either Resolution A.868(20) or MEPC.127(53). BWMP approved in accordance with resolution A.868(20), should remain valid until the plan requires revision due to the installation of a ballast water management system

Certification

(Engineering Circular No.2 of 2016)

As the Indian Government has not yet ratified the BWM Convention, Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to issue a Statement of Compliance (SoC) upon satisfactory survey and compliance with BWM requirements.

De-harmonization of IOPP certificate

The Administration has no objection for decoupling the IOPP certificate from the HSSC.

Owners/Managers of vessel(s) of 400 grt and above which are registered in India and engaged on International voyages are advised to approach Recognised Organisation (RO) for subjecting their vessels to IOPP renewal survey, if planning to advance the IOPP renewal survey for cases where the vessel's renewal surveys are falling due after the 8th September 2017 with an aim to postpone the fitment of BWTS.

For further information, refer to “Engg Circular No 02-2016.pdf”

Re-harmonization of IOPP certificate

(Engineering Circular No. 02A of 2016 Addendum to Engg. Circular No. 02 of 2016)

All those ship owners who have decoupled their IOPP renewal surveys from HSSC regime, may re-couple the IOPP renewal survey with HSSC regime and thus reinstate the IOPP Certificate to its original status. Consequently, the IOPP renewal surveys which were conducted on/after 06.12.2016 for de-coupling may be treated as additional/annual/intermediate survey, as appropriate.

For further information, refer to attached files “Engg Circular No 02-2016.pdf” and “ENGG CIR 02A OF 2016”.

AFS Convention

Issuance of certificate

India has acceded to the international convention on the control of harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on ships, 2001 (AFS convention) on 24^th April, 2015 and this will come into force with effect from 24^th July, 2015.

The existing Statemenf of Compliance (SoC) issued to vessels in respect to the AFS convention are required to be replaced with convention certificates at the first of the following occurring after 24^th July, 2015 but not later than 24^th July, 2016:

1. At any statutory periodical (annual / intermediate / renewal) survey undertaken on board the vessel after 24^th July, 2015

2. At the time of endorsement of records towards AFS survey;

3. At change of flag survey;

4. Re-issue of certification for AFS convention due to possible changes to technical requirements, certification details/entries, etc;

5. At owner’s request;

6. Initial surveys of vessels newly constructed.

For further information, refer to the Engineering Circular No. 4 of 2015 in the attached file “EngineeringCircularNo.4of2015”.

Tonnage 69

Untitled

Partial authorization. The extent of authorization is in accordance with specific instructions on the matter from the Directorate.

COLREG 72

Untitled

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

ILO Conventions

Crew accommodations - ILO 92 & 133 conventions

Refer to Appendix 1 to the Agreement (in Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services).

Miscellaneous Technical Requirements

Coastal and ocean towing

Refer to the Merchant Shipping Notice No. 08 of 2013 in the attached file “MerchantShippingNoticeNo.08of2013”, for information regarding certification in case of operations of coastal and ocean towing.

Coastal vessels

The Administration dispenses the ships, operating along the Indian coast and within 20 miles from the coast of India, with the requirements to observe the M.S. Act provisions contained in the sections listed in the below table, provided, strict compliance is shown to the requirements and stipulations as detailed in Annexes I to XIII of the DGS Order No. 01 of 2014, in the attached file “DGSorder1_2014”.

Offshore Supply / Support Vessels (OSV)

Refer to the Engineering Circular No. 4 of 2013 in the attached file “EngineeringCircularNo.4of2013”, for information regarding the carriage of oil as cargo in OSV and applicability of the provisions of MARPOL Annex I.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall verify the compliance of the aforementioned circular and report to the Administration, if any deviation is noticed.

While calculating the aggregate cargo carrying capacity, as referenced in Regulation 2.2 of MARPOL Annex I, of any OSV, capacity of all the tanks connected to the pumping, piping and discharge arrangement with the cargo spaces to be considered excluding the tanks which are connected to the vessel’s bunker tanks and associated pipe lines and are exclusively used for the domestic bunkering purposes, even when they have interconnections with the cargo pumping systems.

Such tanks designated for the vessel’s domestic consumption shall carry only bunker oil for the main propulsion and other onboard auxiliary services and in no case be used for carriage of cargo. The Oil Record Book (ORB Part I), Bunker Delivery Note (BDN) for the received bunker and other relevant documents / records to establish the above shall be maintained readily available onboard such vessels for verification by competent authorities.

No further relaxation is permitted in such cases, including for the mud or brine tanks and isolation of some oil tanks from cargo system by “temporary means” for reducing the cargo capacity merely to avoid certain requirements is not permitted.

Further, Regulation 12A of Annex I of the MARPOL, i.e. oil fuel tank protection for OSVs with an aggregate oil fuel capacity of 600 cub meter and above and constructed on or after 1-8-2007 or delivered on or after 1-8-2010 shall continue to be applicable in such cases.

The aggregate cargo carrying capacity of any such vessel shall not exceed 1000 m³.

The limitation in the size of the cargo tank, as required by Regulation 26.4, shall be complied by limiting the actual volume of the cargo carried in such tanks to a value proportionate; so as, not to exceed the volume determined by the calculation stated in Regulation 26.4, Annex I of MARPOL.

The stability booklet, cargo plan and the IOPP Form “B” shall mention the corrected volume of the cargo tank and the same need to be suitably approved by Recognised Organisation (RO). The compliance with this requirement shall be evidenced by the Oil Record Book entries and all such documents of declaration of the vessels cargo carrying capacity.

The Directorate has “no objection” to the transfer of fuel oil from the cargo tank to the OSVs bunker tank, provided the transfer is documented in the Oil Record Book, as per requirement; and other obligation for oil pollution prevention, and conforming to the standards in terms of the fuel oil quality, as per Regulation 18, Annex VI of MARPOL are complied with.

Recognised Organisation (RO) shall verify the compliance of the above.

For further information, refer to the Corrigendum 1 to Engineering Circular No. 4 of 2013 in the attached file “Corrigendum1toEngCirc4of2013”.

Ship Recycling & IHM

Hong Kong Convention

(DGS Order No. 17 of 2026)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is fully authorized to carry out surveys, audits, inspections, verification, certification, and related statutory functions in respect of lndian-flagged vessels under the provisions of the Recycling of Ships Act, 2019, the Recycling of Ships Rules, 2021, and the Recycling of Ships Regulations, 2026, in accordance with the requirements of the Hong Kong International convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, 2009 (HKC, 2009).

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to issue the International Certificate on IHM and International Ready for Recycling Certificate.

Regulation (EU) No.1257/2013

(MS Notice 14 of 2020)

Recognised Organisation (RO) is authorized to carry out survey and issue a Statement of Compliance on Inventory of Hazardous Materials, on behalf of India, under the provisions of M.S.Notice 14 of 2020 dated 05/11/2020 (available in National Certificate).

Installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems

(MS Notice 02 of 2025)

The following is being mandated for Indian Flag Merchant vessels and foreign flag vessel trading in Indian Coasts under Specific Period License (SPL). It is further recommended that Foreign Flag Vessels visiting Indian Port be duly cognizant of the mentioned criteria and may consider implementation of the same.

Vessel owners/ISM managers in coordination with the Master shall conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify and create a design plan for CCTV system based on vessel-specific vulnerabilities and optimal camera placement, including an assessment of potential areas crucial to safety and security, including the need to be intrinsically safe for tankers in hazardous zones. The minimum coverage zones should be as recommended in the MS Notice 02 of 2025 while specific attention shall be given to high-risk areas such as shipside railings, common areas, and isolated spaces.

The time frame for installation of CCTV systems is given in section 6 of the MS Notice 02 of 2025.

Foreign-flagged vessels calling Indian Ports are encouraged to adopt similar best practices With respect to CCTV systems as outlined in the MS Notice 02 of 2025. Accordingly, owners and ISM Managers are advised to pro-actively implement this initiative on their vessels, in line with Sections 8.1 and 9 of the ISM Code. It is reiterated that the requirement for CCTV systems as specified is mandatory as per the given time frame for foreign-flagged vessels operating along the Indian coast under SPL.

The CCTVs should be periodically inspected by the ship staff weekly and serviced annually onboard or by an authorised service centre. Records to be available for review during audits and inspections.

Maritime Training Institute (MTI)

Refer to the attached DGS Training Circular No. 01 of 2024 about the collection of details of shipboard training by the RO before conducting the Comprehensive Inspection Programme (CIP) & MMDs for verification/re-inspection of the MTIs approved for the pre-sea courses.

ISM Code

Authorization & Instructions

Specific Requirements

Cyber Security

(Engineering Circular No.6 of 2017 with Corrigendum in attached files)

1. All new DOC applicants requesting for initial DOC audit on/after 1 January 2018:Cyber-risk management procedures to be included in the SMS risk mitigation manuals. These procedures to be reviewed by Recognized Organization prior conduct of initial DOC audit by the Administration auditor.

   Review and verification of satisfactory implementation of the said cyber-security risk mitigation during the initial audit by the Administration Surveyor. The initial audit report narrative and Document review record narrative to clearly state the same.

   A suitable memo (stating the satisfactory compliance to the said IMO requirement) be raised in the survey status of each vessel owned/managed by the said company by the RO conducting the initial audit after satisfactory verification of the implementation of the cyber- risk mitigation measure on board each such vessel during the initial audit. The audit report narrative to include verification of the compliance with such requirement on board.

2. All other existing DOC holders wishing to demonstrate compliance prior to 1st January 2021:It is advised that Indian DOC holders may not wait till the 1st annual/renewal DOC audit after 1st January 2021.A Company wishing to demonstrate compliance with the said IMO requirement earlier may carry out a cyber-risk assessment and include the mitigation procedures in their SMS after due review by RO.Request DGS auditor to verify compliance during the annual/renewal DOC audit. Administration auditor to follow procedures detailed in a) above with respect to verification and reporting during this annual/renewal DOC audit. A copy of such report to be forwarded by the Company to the concerned RO”s which conducted previous SMS audits on the Company managed vessels.

   RO/Administration auditor carrying out the next due intermediate/renewal SMS audit (ater demonstrating the verification of compliance in the last DOC audit) on the Company managed vessels to follow procedures detailed in a) above with respect to compliance, report narrative and raising of a suitable Memo in the survey status of the said vessels.

3. On/After 1 January 2021:No request for DOC annual/renewal audit shall be accepted unless risk mitigation procedures reviewed by RO are included in the SMS manuals.No request for vessels SMC intermediate/renewal audit shall be entertained unless the report narrative of previous DOC audit states compliance with the said IMO requirement with respect to cyber-security risk management.

Appendix — Agreement governing the delegation of statutory certification services

Agreement

Refer to the attached files:

• “Agreement_India_RO_01082023”,

• “Appendix1_India_RO_01082023”,

• “Appendix2_India_RO_01082023”,

The DG Shipping Order No. 6 of 2013 dated 18^th March 2013 details the “Statutory certification and services of Indian ships by the Recognised Organisations (ROs)” (see attached file “dgsorder6_2013”). It has been clarified as per “Corrigendum-3 to DGS Order 6 of 2013” (see attached file “Amendment 3 of DGS order 6”) and “Corrigendum-4 to DGS Order 6 of 2013” (see attached file “Corrigendum4toDGorder6”).

Appendix — Specific Certificates: National and bilingual International certificates

List of National certificates

- Non convention Cargo Ship Construction Certificate

- Non convention Cargo Ship Equipment Certificate and Supplement Form E

- Non convention Cargo Ship Radio Certificate and Supplement Form R

- Statement of Compliance on Inventory of Hazardous Materials (M.S.Notice 14 of 2020)