DG Shipping’s Age-Based Vessel Ban
• The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has issued Order 6/2023, mandating the scrapping of ships older than 20 years, mainly affecting Indian-flagged coastal and near-shore vessels.
Impact on Maritime Sector
• Over 700 Indian-flagged vessels likely to be retired prematurely
• Over 20,000 seafarers may lose jobs
• Estimated impact on 1 lakh livelihoods
Industry Objections
• The International Maritime Federation (IMF) has opposed the move
• Called it a threat to India’s maritime ecosystem
• Criticized blanket age limits and strict RPSL penalties as excessive
Global Data Highlights
• Analysis of 1.3 lakh vessels and 3.7 lakh inspections shows:
• Older ships (25+ years) often have better safety records
• Due to rigorous maintenance and survivorship bias
International Maritime Federation (IMF):
• The International Maritime Federation (IMF) is an industry body representing stakeholders in India’s shipping and maritime sector.
• It primarily advocates for the interests of seafarers, shipowners, and maritime companies operating under the Indian flag.
• The IMF works to ensure fair regulatory practices, promote seafarer welfare, and support growth of Indian maritime trade.
• It actively engages with government bodies like the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) on policy issues such as vessel safety norms, age restrictions, and employment regulations.