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Simplified procedure for an endorsement of change of command as per section 37 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, as amended, for vessels operating on the Indian coast - reg.

Applicable to: Indian flag ships operating on the Indian coast
Effective Date: 23rd February 2016
Superseded Circulars: None mentioned

Key Changes and Requirements

1. Simplified Change of Command Procedure — Section 37, Merchant Shipping Act, 1958

Indian flag vessels on coastal trade are exempt from endorsing change of Master on the certificate of registry, subject to certain conditions.

  • Conditions:
    • Record handover/takeover in official log book (section 212).
    • Memorandum of change of command with signatures of incoming/outgoing Master and ship-owner/representative.
    • Prescribed fee for endorsement deposited.
Fees: Check DG Shipping for current rates.

2. Compliance and Verification — Section 6

The Registrar of Indian Ships shall verify compliance within 72 hours of every change of command.

Download official PDF

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