CLARIFICATION ON MS NOTICE 5/2001 AND 21/2001

Sir,

 1.       This Directorate has been receiving requests for clarification on implementation of MS Notice 5/2001 and 21/2001.

 2.       In accordance with MS Notice 5/2001, Certificate of Service (COS) is a valid document for Indian vessels plying on Indian coast. MS Notice No. 21/2001 requires that a person holding COS should have completed modular courses, refresher course and atleast 03 months sea service on Merchant Ship prior to be granted an endorsement on COS to serve in the capacity of Master.

 3.       It is clarified that a COS is a valid document even without such an endorsement as mentioned above. Therefore, the requirement of obtaining endorsement as per MS Notice 21/2001 is to be treated as optional. However, it is recommended that persons holding a COS should complete the requirements of MS Notice 21/2001 and obtain endorsement prior to taking up employment in the Merchant Shipping in the interest of personnel and collective safety.

4.       You are requested to be guided accordingly.

Yours faithfully,

                                                        (Capt. H Khatry)

                                                                Nautical Surveyor

CC : -
Indian National Ship Owners Association
Mumbai with the request to convey the contents to member