Issuance of Statutory Certificates by Recognized Organizations in Electronic format.

1. Applicability and Scope

This circular applies to statutory certificates issued by Recognized Organizations to Indian Flag cargo vessels. It covers certificates listed in the IMO's "List of Certificates and Documents required to be carried on board ships 2017".

2. Requirements for Electronic Certificates

Electronic certificates must include the following security features:

• i) Compliance with relevant international conventions
• ii) Protection from unauthorized edits
• iii) Unique tracking number
• iv) Visible symbol confirming the source of issuance

Recognized Organizations must also ensure their websites meet established information security standards.

3. Instructions for Flag State Inspectors and Port State Control Officers

Flag state inspectors and Port State Control Officers shall accept electronic certificates containing the required features. They may verify the authenticity of certificates using the procedure available on board the ship.

4. Instructions for Recognized Organizations and Administration Surveys

Recognized Organizations and Administration Surveys must follow specific procedures for endorsing electronic certificates issued by another RO or for issuing short-term certificates.