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Implementation of Amendments to the STCW Convention, 1978, as amended, related to Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Regulation V/4) (MSC.416(97) & MSC.417(97))
Applicable to:
Masters, Chief Mates, and officers in charge of navigational watch on ships operating in polar waters
Effective Date:
09.03.2026
Superseded Circulars:
NT/EXAM Circular No. 02 of 2018 and DGS (NT/ENG) Circular No. 18 of 2025
Key Changes and Requirements
1. New Training Requirements for Polar Waters
The IMO has adopted new amendments to the STCW Convention related to ships operating in polar waters. India has implemented these amendments, introducing new training requirements for Masters, Chief Mates, and officers in charge of navigational watch.
- Basic Training: Mandatory for all officers serving on ships operating in polar waters. Annexure-A outlines the competency standards.
- Advanced Training: Mandatory for Masters and Chief Mates serving on ships operating in polar waters. Annexure-B outlines the competency standards.
2. Certification and Compliance
Candidates must complete approved training programs and meet the specified competency standards to obtain certificates for basic and advanced training.
- Basic Training: Successful completion of an approved basic training program and meeting the standard of competence specified in section A-V/4, paragraph 1 of the STCW Code.
- Advanced Training: Meeting the requirements for certification in basic training, having at least two months of approved seagoing service in the deck department, and successfully completing an approved advanced training program.
II/4 Annexures A and B provide the minimum standard of competence for basic and advanced training for ships operating in polar waters.
Important Note
Candidates should refer to NT/EXAM Circular No. 02 of 2018 and DGS (NT/ENG) Circular No. 18 of 2025 for transitional provisions.
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