DGS Circular No. 53 of 2025(STCW Circular No. 05 of 2025)
Explained in Simple Language:-
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) released an important circular on 1 December 2025. It introduces a new training requirement for all seafarers. The update adds a compulsory module on preventing and responding to violence, harassment, bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault. This module now forms a part of the Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR) course under the Basic Safety Training (BST).
Why Did DGS Make This Change?
The STCW Convention sets global standards for seafarer training. During the 108th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) at the IMO headquarters in London, member states agreed to strengthen safety and workplace conduct. They introduced a new competence that increases awareness and improves response measures for violence and harassment at sea. Since India follows the STCW Convention, DGS decided to implement the same update.
What’s New in the PSSR Course?
DGS added a new 3-hour learning module to the existing PSSR course. As a result, the total duration of the course now becomes 29 hours over four days. MTIs must update their syllabus, timetable and course content by 15 December 2025. They can issue course certificates only after a trainee completes the updated module.
Changes for Deck and Engine Officers
The new competence will merge with the six-hour Gender Sensitization training already required in the following courses:
- Deck officer preparatory and competency courses
- Engineering officer preparatory courses
- Deck officer revalidation courses
- Engineer officer revalidation courses
These courses will keep the same total duration. However, the content must include the new competence from 15 December 2025. Additionally, the certificates must carry an annotation confirming the completion of this module.
Requirements for Existing Seafarers
All serving officers, ratings and trainees must finish the e-learning course titled PSSR Amendment 2026 (Course ID 957) on the DGS Learning Management System. They can download and attach the completion certificate with their BST or PSSR certificate.
Those who currently sail may complete this training after signing off and before joining their next vessel on or after 1 January 2026.
Responsibilities of Shipping Companies
Shipping companies must include this competence in their familiarization and onboard training programmes. This step ensures that every crew member understands how to prevent workplace misconduct and how to respond when such incidents occur.
When Will These Rules Apply?
The new requirements come into force on 1 January 2026.
What This Circular Means
- A new safety training topic is added to PSSR.
- It focuses on preventing & responding to harassment, bullying, and sexual misconduct.
- PSSR duration increases to 29 hours (4 days).
- Officers’ training courses get updated but overall duration stays the same.
- Existing seafarers must complete an online module.
- Shipping companies must update their internal training.
- All rules apply starting 1 January 2026.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is a simplified explanation of the official circular issued by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS). It is meant for general awareness and should not be considered an official legal or regulatory document. Readers are advised to refer to the original DGS circular and official maritime guidelines for complete and authoritative details. The author assumes no responsibility for any actions taken based on this summary.
