Merchant Navy

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Description: The term "merchant navy" relates to the private maritime sector that manages passenger and cargo ships. In terms of international trade and transportation, the Merchant Navy is in charge of moving people and cargo via sea. The Merchant Navy mainly consists of privately operated and privately owned civilian ships, while it is possible for it to include contain government-owned boats. Officers and crew members manage and maintain the ships, while engineers, navigators, and other staff ensure that everything runs properly on board the vessels.

Depending on the specific position that they are seeking, people must regularly complete specific education and learn certification in order to operate in the Merchant Navy. This could entail finishing a training programme at a maritime academy or a different kind of course, as well as gaining practical expertise on the job.

As a whole, the Merchant Navy is a crucial component of the world's transportation network since it makes it possible for individuals as well as freight to be transported by water around the globe. One of the nobel jobs of today is in the merchant navy. It is a contractual responsibility. It is a well compensated, tax-free employment, but it comes with certain trade-offs, such spending at least six months away from relatives and close friends and living on board. Although technology has improved to the point that you may now make a telephone or video call via the internet.

          In such a field of work, one can tour the globe at the expense of the company, but life on board the vessel is also not without its challenges. You will be required to put in a set amount of additional time on top of your regular working hours without whining. You may need to handle the problem at your end if there are calls from port or any other emergencies linked to your job. You must travel to the engine compartment or the control room during a port call to perform the necessary ship manoeuvres. 

Branches: Basically there are 2 main branches in this field one is the ship's engine room side and the other is the Navigation side.

Engine room side: In this branch all the technical side officers and crew are working in engine room of the ship.

Navigation side:The whole navigation side crew including officers work in this branch on the ship's navigation bridge.The central control centre where a ship is handled and navigated is called the navigation bridge. It is in charge of directing the ship's movements, keeping track of its location, and connecting with other ships and ports. It is normally positioned at the front or uppermost level of the ship.

The navigation bridge is equipped with a range of advanced instruments and systems, including Radar, GPS, sonar, and other cutting-edge equipment and systems are all present and working on the navigation bridge. These technologies are utilised to assist the ship's crew in securely and effectively navigating across the ocean while avoiding dangers which includes other boats, rocks, and shallow waters. In order to stay in touch with different ships, ports, and authorities, the bridge also has a number of communication technologies like radio and satellite communications. Monitoring these mechanisms as well as responding to any new messages or requests is the responsibility of the passengers and crew on the bridge.

As a whole, the bridge for navigation is an important component of any ship since it offers the amenities and resources required for effective and safe navigation on the open oceans.

What is The engine control room (ECR): The ECR is equipped with a range of advanced instruments and systems, such as engine monitoring systems, fuel monitoring systems, and control systems. These systems are used to help the ship's engineers monitor the ship's propulsion systems and respond to any changes or issues that arise. A ship's propeller system is controlled mainly from the engine control room (ECR). It is in charge of keeping tabs on and regulating the ship's mechanical systems, and frequently lies close to the ship's engines. A variety of cutting-edge instrumentation and technologies, including systems for control, fuel monitoring equipment, and engine monitoring systems, are included in the ECR. The ship's engineers utilise these systems to monitor the ship's engine systems and react to any adjustments or issues that could happen.

The ECR is equipped with a range of advanced instruments and systems, such as engine monitoring systems, fuel monitoring systems, and control systems. These systems are used to help the ship's engineers monitor the ship's propulsion systems and respond to any changes or issues that arise. For the purpose of to interact with other areas of the ship and with authorities on land, the ECR also has communication systems including radios and telephones. These systems' upkeep and any incoming communications or requests must be handled by the vessel's engineers on the ECR. Overall, the control room for engines is a vital part of any ship since it offers the resources and equipment required for the propulsion systems to operate safely and effectively. To guarantee that the ship is run safely and effectively on the high seas, the engineers in the ECR collaborate extensively with the crew on the bridge used for navigation.

Salary structure: 

When a seaman joins a ship, the Merchant Navy compensates him monthly in INR or $ contingent upon the firm. If a seafarer generates an income in dollars and spends at least 180 days at sea in foreign waters, he is not required to pay taxes on that income.

      However, if a seafarer obtains his wage in Indian rupees, such income will be taxable.

Every officer grade seafarer pays at least 1.2 lakh rupees (or more) per month, and crew grade seafarers earn roughly 50K rupees.

Recreation on ship: 

For the amusement of all seafarers, a ship has a variety of facilities, including activities like table tennis, basketball, swimming pool, and cricket, among others. Other facilities included TV, a gym, and others. Some ships now have access to the internet, however it is extremely costly due to their satellites link.

Food on ship: .The food on board is amazing. The cooks are proficient at preparing dishes from many nationalities. On occasion, the corporation could organise parties on board the ship for their employees.

Types of ship: There are various types of ships, which carry different cargo from one place to another.
some of them are as follows :-

1. Container ships
2. Bulk carrier ships
3. Tanker ships
4. General cargo ships.

5. RoRo ships

6. Cruise ships

1. What is Container ships:-  Big containers are utilized by these ships to transport the cargo. These are extremely large and swift ships.Large ocean-going ships termed container ships are made to carry standardized containers for shipping filled with a lot of cargo. Long-distance transportation of commodities is made possible by the simplicity with which these containers may be brought aboard and removed from ships.

   Typically, container ships comprise multiple compartments, each of which may accommodate a large number of containers. Over 20,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) of goods could be transported on the largest container ships currently in use. In the middle of the 20th century, containerization transformed the shipping sector, enabling goods to be transported faster, at lower prices, and more efficiently. Currently, shipping containers are the main mode of movement for cargo across the oceans, and they are essential to global trade and business.

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
    What is Bulk carrier ship:- Bulk carriers are ships that send cargo in huge amounts. These ships regularly convey loose cargo, or cargo that hasn't been expressly bagged, which includes items like grain, ores, coals, and even cement. Since their initial construction in the middle of the 19th century, bulk boats have undergone modernization and simplification in order to improve the comfort of their owners and operators today.Sometimes fluid cargo as well to the previously stated sorts of dry goods are also transported by bulkers. Among this liquefied cargoes that the bulk freighter transports are oil, gasoline, and a range of other liquid chemical-based products.

 
 3. What is  Tanker ships:- 

These vessels carry liquid or gaseous cargo. The ships' speed is also low due to their small size in comparison to other ships.Liquid items like chemicals, oil, and petrol are carried in bulk by large vessels referred to as tanker ships. They can be identified by their size, cylindrical shape, and enormous storage tanks.

Tankers typically fall into two categories based on their size into smaller vessels called "product tankers" and larger vessels termed "crude oil tankers." While product tankers mostly transport processed petroleum products like petrol, diesel and jet fuel, crude oil tankers primarily transport unrefined crude oil.

Due to the simple fact that they transport a sizable amount of worldwide crude oil and petroleum products, tanker ships are essential to international trade. But they are also linked to environmental dangers, such oil spills, which may wreak havoc on coastal people and marine ecosystems. As a result, severe rules and safety considerations apply to the operation, maintenance, and repair of tanker ships.

                                 

      

4. What is General cargo ships:- 

Cars, helicopters, and other general cargo are carried by these ships. General cargo vessels are vessels that can carry a variety of cargo, including containers, breakbulk cargo, dry and liquid bulk cargo, and more. These ships play a significant role in the worldwide maritime sector since they are adaptable and can transport a wide range of various cargoes.

The cargo compartments of general cargo ships often come in a range of sizes and configurations, making it possible to store and transport different types of goods in an efficient manner. They could also include cranes or other tools on board to make the operation of transferring and removing cargo simpler.

General cargo vessels are more adaptable in terms of the kinds of goods they can transport than specialised cargo ships like bulk carriers or container vessels. Because of this, they might be of greater interest to shippers that need to move lots of different items or who have less cargo and don't need a special vessel. For several decades, general cargo ships were an essential element of the shipping industry. Today, general cargo ships still remain vital to world trade.

5. What is RoRo ships: Ships known as RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels are made to transport wheeled products, such as cars, trucks, trailers, and heavy machinery, which can be pushed onto and off of the ship utilising a ramp or stern door. Such types of ships are often used in international commerce, notably for shipping heavy gear and automobiles. Small coastal boats to enormous ocean-going behemoth that can transport hundreds of automobiles are all different kinds of RoRo ships. They are especially made with a big open deck area and a sturdy hull to support the weight of the freight and resist any choppy seas they may run through.

One of the benefits of RoRo shipping is that it provides a more efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation compared to other methods, such as container shipping or air transport. RoRo shipping can also save time since cargo can be loaded and unloaded quickly and efficiently, which is particularly useful for time-sensitive goods.

Overall, RoRo shipping is an important part of the global shipping industry, and it plays a vital role in the movement of vehicles and heavy equipment around the world.

 

6. What is a Cruise Ship: A cruise ship is a passenger ship that is used for leisure travel and vacationing. These large ships are designed to provide passengers with a variety of onboard amenities and activities, while sailing to various destinations around the world.

Cruise ships typically have a range of cabins and suites for passengers to choose from, along with restaurants, bars, lounges, theaters, casinos, and other entertainment options. Many also feature swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, and other wellness facilities.

Cruise ships are operated by cruise lines, which offer a variety of itineraries and destinations for travelers to choose from. These may include Caribbean cruises, Mediterranean cruises, Alaska cruises, and many others.

Working on a cruise ship can be a unique and exciting career opportunity, with positions ranging from hospitality and customer service roles, to marine and engineering positions. Cruise ship jobs may include food and beverage service, entertainment and activities, housekeeping, and various technical roles.

Overall, cruise ships offer travelers a fun and convenient way to explore new destinations, while enjoying a wide range of amenities and activities onboard the ship.

                             
What is STCW 2010: STCW 2010 (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) is an international treaty that sets minimum requirements for watchkeeping, certification, and training for seafarers. Seafarers must pass several of courses mandated by the STCW 2010 convention in order to comply with the minimal standards. A few of the STCW 2010 courses are as follows:

1. Personal Survival Techniques (PST) - This course covers the basic survival techniques and equipment needed to survive at sea in an emergency.

2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF) - This course covers the basic principles of fire prevention and the use of firefighting equipment.

3. Elementary First Aid (EFA) - This course covers basic first aid techniques that can be used in emergency situations.

4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR) - This course covers the basic safety and social responsibilities of seafarers, including shipboard communication and teamwork.

5. Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) - This course covers the basic principles of maritime security, including the recognition and reporting of security threats.

6. Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) - This course covers the advanced principles of fire prevention and the use of firefighting equipment.

7. Medical First Aid (MFA) - This course covers advanced first aid techniques that can be used in emergency medical situations.

8. Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats other than Fast Rescue Boats (PSCRB) - This course covers the principles and practical aspects of operating survival craft and rescue boats.

These courses are mandatory for all seafarers, depending on their position and the type of vessel they work on. The courses can be taken at maritime training centers around the world that are approved by the seafarer's flag state or recognized organizations.

What is DG shipping: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways of the Indian government houses the Directorate General of Shipping, or DG Shipping. The DG Shipping is in charge of upholding all maritime laws, regulations, and standards that apply to vessels and crew members flying the Indian flag on a national and international level. The DG Shipping is in charge of recording ships flying the Indian flag, issuing identification cards for seafarers such as the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) and the Seafarer's Identity Document (SID), and issuing other necessary certificates required by global maritime agreements like SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, etc. likewise the DG Shipping manages a database of Indian seafarers and regulates their training, certification, and work.

Additionally to the previously stated, DG Shipping offers additional services like inspecting and inspecting ships, looking into maritime accidents, and ensuring that environmental and maritime security regulations are followed. To ensure that it continues to follow international maritime rules and agreements, it also coordinates with other flag countries and organisations like the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). In summary, the DG Shipping plays a vital role in developing secure, safe, and environmentally conscious shipping in India and preserving the welfare of Indian seafarers.

What is The Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) :The Indian government's Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) is in responsible for executing policies and rules associated to the safety, welfare, and training of seafarers as well as the registration and examination of Indian ships. It also manages the Merchant Shipping Act of 1958.

The MMD's principal duties are to give competency qualifications to seafarers, checking ships to guarantee that they follow global safety standards, and speaking out for the welfare of seafarers. The department also collaborates closely with other governmental organisations and industry stakeholders to come up with and carry out regulations and policies pertaining to marine safety and security, reducing pollution, and marine training and education.

Together with its regulatory responsibilities, the MMD also offers a range of other services to the marine sector, like the issuing of identification cards for seafarers and the management of certification exams. Regional offices for the department's operations are spread out over India, with its head office in Mumbai. In general, the Mercantile Marine Department is essential for fostering safe and effective shipping in India and ensuring that Indian seafarers have the education and experience necessary to serve on board ships all across the globe.

What is IMO:The expression "IMO shipping" refers to the global shipping business that follows the rules and regulations set forth by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the specialised arm of the United Nations in charge of the safety, security, and environmental performance of international shipping. Over 90% of all the world's goods are shipped by the IMO shipping sector, which is an essential part of the global economy. A wide variety of ships, including cargo ships, tankers, passenger ships, and specialised boats for offshore operations, are employed in this industry.

A variety of regulations, among them those pertaining to security, preservation of the environment, and safety relate to IMO shipping. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has established a number of meetings and codes that serve as targets for the shipping industry, such as the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) convention and the MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) convention. The IMO also aims to endorse ecologically conscious shipping methods and lessen the industry's adverse impact on the environment. This covers programmes to lower the release of greenhouse gases from ships, boost energy effectiveness, and stop ship-related pollutants.

Overall, IMO shipping is a vital component of the global economy and is essential for overcoming trade deficits and connecting markets. The safety of seafarers, the safeguarding of the marine environment, and the advancement of environmentally conscious shipping adheres to are all targets of stringent regulations and legislation that need to be obeyed.

What is MLC : The International Labour Organisation (ILO) developed the Marine Labour Convention (MLC), an international agreement that spells forth basic requirements for seafarers' wellbeing and working conditions. The MLC, referred to as the "Seafarers' Bill of Rights," was approved in 2006 and came into effect in 2013. All seafarers, no matter their nationality, who serve aboard ships doing business are subject to the MLC. The minimum their ages, working hours, rest times, pay, and social security payments constitute only only a few of the prerequisites that are listed in it.

The MLC additionally tackles issues related to health and safety, particularly in regard to medical care, housing, and aboard dining options. It requires shipowners to provide seafarers with an atmosphere of security and safety as well as access to medical attention and therapy as needed. The MLC additionally created a certification and inspection system to guarantee that ships adhere to the appropriate requirements. This involves obligatory port state official inspections to determine when the convention is being effectively followed.

As a whole, the MLC is an important global arrangement that aims to preserve seafarers' rights and improve equitable working conditions in the marine sector. It is a noteworthy accomplishment in the continuous initiatives to enhance the welfare and economic circumstances of seafarers throughout the world.

What is MARPOL: MARPOL stands for the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, which is a treaty adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1973 and updated by subsequent protocols. The purpose of MARPOL is to prevent pollution of the marine environment by ships, including accidental and intentional discharges of oil, chemicals, sewage, garbage, and other harmful substances.

The MARPOL convention consists of six annexes, each addressing a specific type of pollutant:

1. Annex I - Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Oil: Regulations for the Prevention of Oil Pollution: This annexe contains the rules for preventing oil pollution from ships, including limiting oil spills and the release of oil into the oceans.Regulations for the Control of Oil Pollution: This annexe specifies the rules for preventing oil contamination from ships, such as minimising oil leaks and the discharge of oil into the seas.

2. Annex II - Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk: The requirements for avoiding pollution from noxious liquids substances, such as chemicals and other dangerous compounds, during the bulk of their transit are laid out in this annexe.

3. Annex III - Prevention of Pollution by Harmful Substances Carried by Sea in Packaged Form: This incorporate governs the packaging, labelling, and shipping of hazardous materials and chemicals that have been packed up.

4. Annex IV - Prevention of Pollution by Sewage from Ships: To prevent waste from polluting the maritime environment, this incorporate lays forth the standards for treatment and release of waste from ships.

5. Annex V - Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships: To prevent shipping environment harm, this annexe controls the discharge of waste from ships, in particular plastic waste.

6. Annex VI - Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships: The standards for reducing air pollution from ships, especially emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), are explained in this annexe.

MARPOL applies to all ships engaged in international voyages, as well as to fixed and floating offshore structures. The convention is enforced by flag states, port states, and coastal states, and non-compliance can result in significant penalties, including fines and detention of the ship.