Subject : S.D. Circular No.01 of 2008 - Clarifications regarding

          This Directorate has been receiving numerous correspondences seeking clarifications on Shipping Development Circular No. 01 of 2008 dated 25.04.2008 issued by this Directorate regarding revised guidelines for chartering in  of vessels under Section 406 and 407 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. The matter has been examined further and it is clarified as follows:- 

1.         The said Circular does not apply to Indian Flag Vessels, as they are registered and already licensed to ply in Indian waters. 

2.         The said Circular applies to all vessels chartered in under Section 406 and 407 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 except vessels already carrying the Indian Flag. 

3.         The said Circular is applicable from 15^th May 2008. It therefore does not affect vessels licensed under section 406 and 407 before 15^th May 2008, even, if the existing license overlaps the rough weather period.  

4.         Clause 3.1.4 of the said Circular stands amended to read as follows: 

            "3.1.4. For time charters of vessels other than passenger vessels, to be entered into with effect from 15^th May 2008, which include in the period of charter any period of foul weather, only if the age of the vessel proposed, is less than that specified in Clause 3.1.1, 3.1.2 and 3.1.3 for the respective category of vessel, at the time of termination of the charter period". 

5.         This issues with the approval of the Director General of Shipping and Ex-Officio Additional Secretary to the Government of India.

Sd/-
(Samuel Darse)
Deputy Director General of Shipping