India has introduced an expanded regulatory framework governing foreign ships calling at Indian ports, operating in Indian coastal waters or transiting those waters, with a transition period for specified additional compliance requirements until April 1, 2027.
The Merchant Shipping (Regulation of Entry of Ships into Coastal Waters) Rules, 2026, notified on September 16, broaden the scope of regulation beyond vessels entering Indian ports to include ships operating in or navigating through Indian coastal waters.
The revised framework introduces requirements relating to insurance coverage, vessel classification, salvage arrangements and marine pollution response. The provisions are intended to strengthen maritime safety, emergency preparedness and environmental protection in Indian waters.
Under the new requirements, applicable vessels must maintain the prescribed insurance or financial security, hold valid classification certificates where required, and establish arrangements for salvage services and marine pollution response through approved providers.
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration issued Circular No. 69 of 2026 on October 14, providing a transition period until April 1, 2027, for specified additional requirements. The extension is intended to give shipowners and operators time to complete the necessary contractual arrangements and meet applicable classification requirements.
The revised rules have implications for international shipping lines, shipowners, vessel operators, technical managers and shipping agents whose vessels operate in Indian waters. Industry stakeholders are expected to review their existing documentation and emergency-response arrangements to ensure compliance before the transition period expires.
The expanded regulatory framework marks a significant change in India’s approach to regulating foreign vessels in its coastal waters, extending oversight beyond conventional port-entry requirements.