Introduction

In a major development that affects India’s maritime operations, the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has issued a new guideline instructing all RPS (Recruitment and Placement Services) agencies to refrain from onboarding Indian seafarers currently based in Iran. The directive also advises Indian-flagged vessels and companies to avoid sailing to Iranian ports, citing compliance, legal, and security risks.

This directive comes amid growing global scrutiny on Iran-linked maritime activities and is viewed as a preventive step to align with international regulations and safeguard Indian shipping interests.

Key Points of the DG Shipping Directive

1. Ban on Onboarding Indian Seafarers from Iran

RPS agencies licensed by DG Shipping have been strictly instructed not to recruit or deploy Indian seafarers who are currently residing or working in Iran. The directive emphasizes the importance of verifying the current location and employment history of seafarers to ensure compliance.

2. Advisory Against Sailing to Iranian Ports

The DG Shipping advisory also urges shipowners, operators, and Indian-flagged vessels to avoid voyages to or trade with Iran. This comes as multiple countries have imposed sanctions on Iranian trade and maritime activities, which may lead to complications such as detentions, blacklisting, or denial of port entry.

Reasons Behind the DG Shipping Guidelines

• Sanction Compliance: India is aligning with international sanctions and maritime advisories related to Iran. Any involvement with Iranian ports or seafarers could lead to secondary sanctions or diplomatic pressure.
• Safety & Legal Risks: Sailing to Iran or onboarding seafarers from Iran could expose Indian maritime stakeholders to security risks, legal disputes, or reputational damage.
• International Pressure: Several flag states, classification societies, and insurance providers have raised red flags over Iran-linked shipping activity, prompting DG Shipping to issue a preventive circular.

Impact on RPS Agencies and Indian Shipping

This directive significantly affects RPS agencies handling international placements, especially those working with seafarers returning from Middle Eastern countries. Agencies are now required to perform enhanced due diligence on seafarer origins, including their last port of work and residence.

For shipping companies, rerouting vessels or avoiding Iranian waters may cause operational delays, but the move is seen as necessary to stay compliant with global maritime law.

Industry Response

Many stakeholders have welcomed the directive as a precautionary measure to avoid future regulatory hurdles. Legal advisors in the maritime sector have also highlighted the need for RPS agencies and shipowners to regularly monitor DG Shipping circulars and global sanction lists.

Conclusion

DG Shipping’s recent guideline banning RPS agencies from onboarding Indian seafarers based in Iran and advising vessels not to sail to Iran is a clear signal of India’s commitment to international maritime compliance and national security. As geopolitical tensions rise, Indian maritime stakeholders are expected to adapt swiftly and uphold safety, legality, and operational transparency.