India, July 21 -- The Government of India has issued a release:
The Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 has come into force with effect from 15th March, 2026. The Act modernises India's maritime legal framework in line with contemporary international maritime standards and significantly strengthens the statutory framework governing the safety, welfare and rights of seafarers. It introduces statutory safeguards for abandoned seafarers, strengthens the regulation and oversight of Recruitment and Placement Services, and provides a robust legal framework for implementing evolving international maritime labour standards.
In addition, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration, the regulator under Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in r...