Wets Asia conflict | DG Shipping extends validity of certificates for Indian seafarers

These include Certificates of Competency (CoC) issued to officers and Certificates of Proficiency (CoP) issued to ratings and trainees.

Mumbai: Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, the Directorate General of Shipping has extended the validity of various certifications for Indian seamen.

“In view of the prevailing heightened security situation in the Middle East / West Asia region and adjoining waters, it has been observed that certain seafarers presently serving onboard vessels may face difficulties in completing the renewal or revalidation of their statutory certificates due to operational and logistical constraints,” Capt Ravi Singh Sikarwar, Nautical Surveyor-cum-Deputy Director General (Technical) said in a circular.

The validity of certificates held by seafarers currently serving onboard Indian-flagged or foreign-flagged vessels is hereby extended for three months from the certificate's expiry date or until the seafarer signs off from the vessel, whichever is earlier.

These include Certificates of Competency (CoC) issued to officers, Certificates of Proficiency (CoP) issued to ratings and trainees, Certificates of Proficiency for specialized operations including Tankers, IGF Code ships, Polar Waters operations, Passenger Ships, and Endorsements attesting recognition of a Certificate of Competency.

The extension of three months from the original date of expiry shall also be applicable to certificates or documentary evidence in respect of the STCW basic and advanced safety training courses: Personal Survival Techniques (PST, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF), Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR) Upgradation, Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (PSCRB), Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF), Medical First Aid (MFA) and Medical Care (MC).

“This extension shall be applicable only to Indian seafarers who are serving onboard vessels as on the date of issuance of this circular and who are unable to complete the renewal or revalidation of their certificates due to the prevailing situation in the Middle East / West Asia region,” said Capt Sikarwar.

According to him, the measure is being issued as a “temporary facilitative measure” in view of the extraordinary circumstances arising from the prevailing security situation in the region and the DG-Shipping will continue to monitor the situation and may issue further advisories or directions as considered necessary.