The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPS&W) on September 16, 2026, issued the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Rules, 2026.
They shall come into force from September 26, 2026.
The following has been stated:
• The Rules prescribe standards and procedures for pre-sea and periodic medical examinations, covering medical history, physical examination, laboratory investigations, eyesight, hearing, colour vision, vaccination and assessment of fitness based on the seafarer’s age, rank, duties and type of shipping operation. Medical examinations shall be conducted by approved Medical Examiners following prescribed international maritime medical guidelines.
• The Rules provide for approval and regulation of Medical Examiners and medical clinics, including qualification, familiarisation/refresher courses, accreditation and infrastructure requirements. Approval is generally valid for five years, subject to renewal requirements, including conducting at least 25 medical examinations annually. The Rules also prescribe fees of ₹25,000 for initial approval, ₹10,000 for renewal and ₹2,000 for changes in contact/address details.
• A Medical Examiner may issue a certificate of “Fit”, “Temporarily Unfit” or “Permanently Unfit”, with reasons and re-examination requirements where applicable. Medical records and certificates shall be retained for three years in electronic and other prescribed forms and uploaded to the Administration’s website. Seafarers shall also carry a valid International Certificate of Vaccination.
• The Rules establish an appellate mechanism under which a seafarer can challenge an unfitness decision within 60 days. The appellate authority may confirm, modify or reverse the decision, generally within 60 days. The Administration may also suspend or cancel a Medical Examiner’s approval for serious lapses, misconduct or non-compliance.
[Notification No. - G.S.R. 816(E)]
