Day: 10 June 2025

Modular Courses in Merchant Navy What Are Modular Courses?Modular Courses are short-term, specialized training programs mandated by the Directorate General of Shipping (D.G. Shipping), Government of India, to ensure that all officers, crew, and seafarers are adequately trained in safety, survival, security, and pollution prevention in compliance with STCW (Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping) 2010 guidelines. Who Needs Modular Courses?These courses are mandatory for:Deck Officers (Captain, Chief Mate, etc.)Engine Officers (Chief Engineer, 2nd Engineer, etc.)GP Rating / Engine Rating / Deck RatingElectro-Technical Officers (ETO)Catering Staff (Cook, Steward, etc.)New entrants & existing seafarers for revalidation List of Essential Modular Courses Basic STCW Courses (For All Seafarers)PST – Personal Survival TechniquesPSSR – Personal Safety and Social ResponsibilitiesEFA – Elementary First AidFPFF – Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting Duration: 6 to 12 days Mandatory for all joining merchant navy for the first time. Advanced STCW Courses (For Officers & Key Personnel)AFF – Advanced Fire FightingMFA – Medical First AidPSCRB – Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue BoatsSSO – Ship Security OfficerBRM/ERM – Bridge/Engine Room Resource ManagementTASCO – Tanker Familiarization (Oil, Chemical, Gas)GMDSS – Global Maritime Distress & Safety SystemARPA & Radar – For navigational safetyRefresher Courses – For revalidation of COC and STCW Special Modular CoursesCrowd Management – For passenger shipsCrisis Management – For senior crew on passenger shipsHLO (Helicopter Landing Officer) – For offshore vesselsOCTCO/CTCO – Chemical/Gas Tanker Cargo OperationsMedical Care – Advanced medical training onboardWhy Are Modular Courses Important?Ensure compliance with international maritime lawsIncrease safety awareness and preparednessMandatory for joining or rejoining shipsEssential for promotion and career progressionRequired for Certificate of Competency (COC) revalidationTips for Seafarers:Always keep your STCW modular course certificates updated.Check DGS e-Governance portal for approved MTIs and validity.Attend Refresher Courses before expiry of existing certificates (5 years).