Committe Of Members
Shri. Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping
Designation :
Director General of Maritime Administration
Present Posting :
Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), Mumbai
Educational Background :
Master's in Biochemistry from the Osmania University
Shri Shyam Jagannathan, a 1997 batch IAS officer of the Assam Meghalaya cadre, assumed office of the Directorate General of Maritime Administration under Ministry of ports, Shipping and Waterways, Govt. of India on 03rd July, 2023. He has earlier served as Zonal Development Commissioner, Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone (SEEPZ), Special Economic Zone (SEZ), Mumbai under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt. of India at Mumbai.
In his earlier assignments with the State Government of Assam, Shri Shyam Jagannathan has served as Commissioner & Secretary, Finance Department and Commissioner, North Assam Division.
Shri Shyam Jagannathan has also served as Commissioner, Commercial Taxes, Chairman Civil Supplies Corporation, Department of Food & Civil Supplies, Department of Finance, Government of Kerala and separately as District Magistrate of West Garo Hills in Meghalaya, thereby giving him the diverse exposure of the three States of Assam, Kerala and Meghalaya.
He has domain knowledge in the core areas of public finances, export promotion, prospective planning, public policy analysis and sectoral exposure to Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Rural development and judicial processes.
Presently, in the assignment of Directorate General of Maritime Administration, an attempt is being made to leverage technology-based solution to computerize end to end the work flow process of the Directorate General of Maritime Administration and the Examination Reforms for the compliance to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), functioning under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, is the apex maritime authority and principal statutory regulator under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025. The DGMA is entrusted with safeguarding India's maritime interests, ensuring compliance with national and international maritime obligations, and promoting safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient maritime operations. The major areas of responsibility are as follows:
1. Maritime Governance and National Maritime Interest
- Serve as the apex administrative interface and statutory maritime authority of India.
- Formulate, implement, and administer policies and regulatory frameworks to protect and further India's maritime interests.
- Coordinate maritime governance initiatives with Central Ministries, State Governments, maritime administrations, and other stakeholders.
- Oversee implementation of maritime legislation, rules, conventions, codes, and international obligations applicable to India.
2. Seafarer Welfare, Safety and Maritime Labour Administration
- Ensure the welfare, safety, security, rights, and working conditions of Indian seafarers at all times.
- Regulate maritime employment, certification, training, competency standards, welfare measures, grievance redressal, and repatriation assistance.
- Ensure compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and other international labour standards applicable to seafarers.
3. Marine Environment Protection and Pollution Prevention
- Safeguard the marine environment through enforcement of national laws and international environmental conventions.
- Prevent, regulate, monitor, and respond to marine pollution arising from vessels, offshore activities, and maritime operations.
- Oversee ballast water management, waste reception facilities, anti-pollution measures, and other environmental protection initiatives.
4. Vessel Registration, Survey, Certification and Flag State Administration
- Regulate the registration, ownership, survey, certification, and operational aspects of Indian vessels and other seagoing craft.
- Establish and enforce standards relating to vessel design, seaworthiness, construction, safety equipment, and statutory certification.
- Exercise Flag State responsibilities to ensure compliance of Indian vessels with national and international requirements.
5. Port State Control and Maritime Compliance Enforcement
- Conduct Port State Control inspections and other statutory inspections to verify compliance of vessels operating in Indian waters.
- Monitor and enforce adherence to international maritime conventions, safety standards, security requirements, and environmental obligations.
- Undertake regulatory oversight of vessel operations, audits, inspections, investigations, and compliance assessments.
6. Maritime Education, Training and Certification
- Regulate and supervise the maritime education and training ecosystem in India, including pre-sea and post-sea institutions.
- Ensure quality standards in maritime training, examinations, certification, accreditation, and competency development.
- Promote professional excellence and continuous skill development within the maritime sector.
7. International Maritime Cooperation and Treaty Implementation
- Represent India at international maritime forums, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), International Labour Organization (ILO), and other multilateral bodies.
- Coordinate implementation of international maritime conventions, protocols, and agreements acceded to by India.
- Promote bilateral and multilateral cooperation in maritime affairs and contribute to the development of global maritime standards.
8. Maritime Security, Port Security and Navigational Safety
- Oversee vessel security, port facility security, and maritime security measures in coordination with relevant authorities.
- Establish and enforce navigational safety standards for commercial seafaring vessels.
- Promote safe navigation, maritime domain awareness, and security of maritime operations within Indian waters and areas under Indian maritime jurisdiction.
9. Multimodal Logistics and Maritime Transport Facilitation
- Facilitate efficient, secure, and economically viable maritime transportation and multimodal logistics systems.
- Monitor and promote safe movement, transit, and transhipment of cargo through major and non-major ports.
- Support initiatives aimed at enhancing ease of doing business, supply chain efficiency, and maritime trade competitiveness.
10. Shipbuilding, Ship Repair and Maritime Industrial Development
- Promote and regulate shipbuilding, ship repair, ship conversion, marine manufacturing, and related maritime industrial activities.
- Establish standards and oversight mechanisms for shipyards and maritime industrial facilities.
- Support modernization and growth of the Indian maritime manufacturing ecosystem.
11. Ship Recycling and Circular Maritime Economy
- Regulate ship recycling activities and ensure compliance with the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships.
- Promote environmentally sustainable and safe recycling practices within the maritime sector.
- Monitor compliance with national and international standards relating to ship dismantling and recycling.
12. Emerging Maritime Technologies and Integrated Maritime Administration
- Regulate and oversee emerging maritime sectors, technologies, offshore units, and other vessels brought within the ambit of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025.
- Promote integrated maritime administration through digital governance, regulatory modernization, and risk-based oversight mechanisms.
- Support innovation, technology adoption, and development of a future-ready maritime ecosystem.
Shri. Sushil Mansingh Khopade, IPS, Addl. Director General of Shipping
Designation :
Additional Director General of Maritime Administration
Present Posting :
Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), Mumbai
Educational Background :
Master’s Degree in Engineering from IIT Bombay
Shri Sushil Khopde, an Indian Police Service officer of 1995 batch from the Bihar cadre, has joined the Directorate General of Maritime Administration on 17th April 2025 as the Additional Director General of Maritime Administration under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He brings with him a wealth of experience from his distinguished career in law enforcement and public administration drawn from nearly three decades of public service.
A Master’s degree holder in Engineering from IIT Bombay, Shri Khopde has held several key positions including Superintendent of Police in various Districts, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Inspector General of Police and Additional Director General of Police heading Special Task Force (STF) in Bihar. His tenure has been marked by significant contributions to maintaining law and order, implementing community policing initiatives and enhancing internal security mechanisms.
In recognition of his exemplary service, Shri Khopde has been conferred with three President’s Police Medals — for Meritorious Service (2011), for Gallantry (2015) and for Distinguished Service (2022).
In his current role as Additional Director General of Maritime Administration, Shri Khopde is poised to bring his vast administrative experience and leadership to advance the objectives of the Directorate General of Maritime Administration — reinforcing safety, security and capacity building in alignment with Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, contributing to the development of the Indian Maritime Sector.
Work Allocation :
Head of Department in absence of DG
The Additional Director General of Maritime Administration (Add. DG) serves as a senior executive authority within the Directorate General of Maritime Administration, under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India. Reporting directly to the Director General, the Add. DG plays a pivotal role in policy execution, branch-level coordination, and administrative leadership. The officer is entrusted with overseeing the following critical functional domains:
All matters of Administration Branch, Personnel Branch, Training Branch, Crew Branch, Official Language Branch, Coastal Branch, Merchant Shipping Law Branch, International Cooperation Branch, Coordination Branch, FAAPP Branch, IT & E-Governance Branch, Multi-Modal Transport Branch, Help Desk Branch, Shipping Development Branch and RTI Branch.
The Additional Director General of Maritime Administration provides strategic leadership and supervisory control over the above-mentioned branches. The officer ensures that their functioning aligns with national maritime objectives, policy compliance, and administrative integrity. The Addl. DG also acts as a key advisor to the Director General and represents the Directorate in official engagements as delegated.
Shri. Mandeep Singh Randhawa, Director (MA & MT), Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways GoI
Capt. Nitin Mukesh, Dy. Director General of Shipping (Crew)
Designation :
Deputy Nautical Adviser cum Senior Deputy Director General (Tech)
Present Posting :
Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Mumbai
Educational Background :
- Cadetship: T.S. Chanakya, Navi Mumbai
- Master (FG) Certificate of Competency (2004)
- M.Sc in Maritime Affairs – World Maritime University (WMU), Malmo
Professional Experience :
At Sea (1995–2011) :
- Joined Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) in 1995.
- Commanded vessels from 2005 (SCI and foreign companies).
- Sailed globally on diverse merchant ships.
Shore (Government Service) :
- Current Role :
- Oversees Maritime & Port Security, ISPS Code compliance.
- Manages accreditation of medical examiners, Life Raft Service stations, and Life-Saving Appliances (LSA).
Other Professional Exposures :
- Membership : Institute of Charter and Shipbroker.
- Policy & Safety Leadership :
- Key contributor to maritime safety regulations and operational standards.
- Ensures adherence to international security protocols (ISPS).
- Operational Expertise : 16+ years at sea, including command experience.
- Policy Acumen : Advanced degree in Maritime Affairs (WMU).
- Regulatory Leadership : Direct oversight of critical safety/security frameworks.
Crew Branch
- Management of Seafarer Welfare Fund Organisation (SWFO) including ERP and oversight responsibilities.
- Management of Seafarer's Provident Fund Organisation (SPFO) including ERP and administration.
- Matters related to Sagar Mey Yog (Seafarer's wellness program).
- Matters related to Sagar Mey Samman (Gender inclusion initiative for seafarers).
- Development of seafarer welfare infrastructure under SWBAT in collaboration with ports and other authorities.
- Oversight of seafarer safety training aspects.
- Handling matters related to Crew Manual and the compilation/updation of all circulars (excluding those under Seafarer Processes subdivision).
- Supporting efforts to increase India’s share in the global seafarer pool in consultation with the Maritime Training Division/Branch/Wing.
- Managing CPGRAMS and handling court cases concerning seafarer welfare.
- Planning and organizing the Crew Milap program as an annual event.
- Coordinating MoUs with national and international bodies like ISWAN, ITWF, GMU, and the Sailor's Society.
Nautical Wing
- Handles matters pertaining to SOLAS Chapter III and Chapter XI-2, including LSA and ISPS compliance.
- In-charge of LSA Dispensation.
- Serves as NSPC In-charge.
- Acts as the Management Representative for QMS (Quality Management System).
- Responsible for handling RTI and public grievances in related subject areas.
Shri. Manoranjan Samal, DS (Finance), Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways GoI
Designation :
Deputy Secretary (Finance)
Present Posting :
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India
Shri. Manoranjan Samal is currently serving as Deputy Secretary (Finance) in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.
Shri Santosh Kumar Singh
Capt. Sujit Churi
Designation :
Head - Fleet Personnel Department
Organisation :
The Great Eastern Shipping Company Limited (GESCO), Mumbai
Capt. Sujit Churi is the Head - Fleet Personnel Department at The Great Eastern Shipping based in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Previously, he served as a General Manager at The Great Eastern Shipping and has also held positions at Univan Ship Management India Private Limited.
Capt. Kenneth G. Sajnani
Designation :
General Manager (Fleet Operations)
Organisation :
Tolani Shipping Company Limited
Educational Background :
Master Mariner (FG)
Capt. Kenneth G. Sajnani (Master Mariner-FG) has more than 42 years of experience including at Sea & Ashore with the Company. He joined Tolani as a Direct Deck Cadet in June 1978 and sailed for 28 years (18 as a Master).
He joined the Office ashore in 2006, as Fleet Operations Manager. During his term in Tolani he held multiple responsibilities from time to time. Having professionally grown with the Company, he is currently the General Manager (Fleet Operations), overseeing ship operations and heading the QSHE Department.
Capt. S.M. Halbe
Organisation :
Maritime Association of Shipowners, Ship Managers and Agents (MASSA)
Capt. S.M. Halbe leads the association in working closely with the Indian Ministry of Shipping, the Director General of Shipping, and various seafarer stakeholders.
He serves as the Committee Chairman for the Executive MBA in Logistics, Supply Chain, and Maritime Management (offered in conjunction with IIM Mumbai).
Capt. M.K. Patankar
Organisation :
Transworld Shipping Lines
Educational Background :
Extra Master Mariner, Fellow of prestigious maritime institutions
Capt. Milind Patankar is a seasoned maritime professional with over 40 years of experience in the shipping industry. An Extra Master Mariner and Fellow of prestigious maritime institutions, he began his seafaring career in 1978, serving in senior navigation and command roles before moving ashore in 1995.
He has held leadership positions in ship management and maritime operations, including Executive Director at KC Maritime (I) Limited, and joined Transworld Group in 2005. His expertise spans ship owning and operations, maritime logistics, technical and commercial management, new projects, and corporate administration.
Capt. Som Raj
Organisation :
The Shipping Corporation of India Limited (S.C.I.)
Capt. Som Raj is a maritime professional with over 35 years of experience in ship operations, human resource management, and maritime training. He joined The Shipping Corporation of India Limited in 1990, rose to the rank of Ship Master, and later took on key leadership roles ashore.
He currently oversees personnel administration and welfare for SCI's seafarers and employees, contributing significantly to operational excellence and strategic projects.
Shri. Milind V. Kandalgaonkar
Designation :
General Secretary-cum-Treasurer
Organisation :
National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI)
Mr. Milind Vaman Kandalgaonkar is the General Secretary-cum-Treasurer of the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI). He has 18 years of seafaring experience, including time as a Bosun, and has been associated with NUSI for the last two decades.
Shri. Sunil V. Nair
Organisation :
National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI)
Mr. Sunil Nair brings over 26 years of HR experience across industries. He has previously served as Head of HR at Ashok Leyland for eight years and currently leads the HR function, overseeing corporate communications and helping align people strategy with organizational growth objectives.
His expertise supports talent management and organizational development initiatives, contributing to the welfare and development of seafarers through his role at NUSI.
Capt. Savio Ramos
Organisation :
Maritime Union of India (MUI)
Capt. Savio Ramos is a highly respected master mariner with over 37 years of maritime experience, including 25 years as a ship captain, having served with leading international shipping companies such as Wallem, Dynacom Tankers, and Valles Steamship.
As a leader of the Maritime Union of India (MUI), he is committed to advancing the welfare, rights, and recognition of Indian seafarers through initiatives focused on safety, fair employment, mental well-being, repatriation support, and inclusivity, particularly for women in the maritime sector.
He actively represents MUI on several key national maritime bodies and plays a significant role in strengthening collaboration between government, industry, and international stakeholders to enhance the welfare and global standing of Indian seafarers.
Capt. Rajesh Tandon
Designation :
CEO
Organisation :
Foreign Owners Representatives and Ship Managers Association (FOSMA)
Capt. Rajesh Tandon is a distinguished maritime professional with over 40 years of experience in ship management, seafarer development, industrial relations, and maritime policy. Starting his career with Shipping Corporation of India and becoming a Ship Master at just 27, he later joined V.Group, where he spent more than three decades in senior leadership roles, including Managing Director and President of V.Ships India.
He played a key role in establishing and expanding V.Ships' operations in India, overseeing thousands of seafarers and advancing training and welfare initiatives. A former Chairman of International Maritime Employers' Council, he is recognized globally for his expertise in maritime employment, collective bargaining, and industry policy.
Since 2022, he has served as CEO of Foreign Owners Representatives and Ship Managers Association, continuing to contribute to the growth and development of the maritime industry.
Capt. Sankalp Shukla
Designation :
Director
Organisation :
Bernhard Schulte Ship Management India (BS Ship Management)
Educational Background :
MSc in International Shipping, Logistics, Supply Chain Management and Port Policies from the University of Plymouth
Capt. Sankalp Shukla is a senior maritime industry leader and Director at Bernhard Schulte Ship Management India, known for his extensive experience in ship operations and crew management. He began his career at sea as a cadet in 1995 and rose to the rank of Master by 2007 before transitioning to shore-based roles in shipping management.
Over the years, he progressed through key leadership positions including Fleet Personnel Manager, Marine Superintendent, Crew Manager, Deputy Director, and was appointed Director in 2014.
He contributes to the maritime sector as Vice Chair of FOSMA and General Secretary of MAPS, reflecting his active role in shaping shipping industry practices and seafarer welfare initiatives.