Amidst the childhood love for boats and vast oceans, we all grew up. Little did we know back then, we could explore a whole career out of it! Merchant Navy opens the way for an individual who might be in pursuit of a life full of adventure, thrill, and challenges. With the right education, training, and experience, one can have a rewarding and challenging career in the Merchant Navy.
The Merchant Navy plays a vital role in global trade, transporting approximately 90% of the world’s goods. Their work ensures that goods reach their destinations efficiently. The primary role involves facilitating the carrying of goods, fuel, and other essential commodities between countries.
Topics covered
Eligibility for Merchant Navy
Eligibility in the merchant navy has various aspects. Candidates need to satisfy all the criteria to pursue a career in it. The general eligibility requirements are Indian nationality and an age group of 17-25.
Educational Qualification
The candidate must have completed 12th board with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects with a minimum 60% aggregate in these subjects.
Physical Fitness and Medical Examination
- Good physical health is crucial as the job involves long periods at sea. The subject is run with a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical requirements.
- A valid medical certificate is necessary to confirm the fitness for the role.
Entrance Exams
- IMU CET: stands for Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test
- AIMNET: stands for All-India Merchant Navy Entrance Test
Note: Some candidates may get sponsored by shipping companies, which can help with the entrance process.
Admission Process of Merchant Navy
While the process might differ for individual aspirants, below is a general overview of the same:
- Clear exams like IMU CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test).
- Join a Maritime Institute like Indian Maritime University (IMU), Merchant Navy Institutes (e.g., T.S. Chanakya, T.S. Rehman), Private maritime institutes (e.g., Anglo Eastern, IMI)
- Complete Training and Certification
- Gain Sea Experience (as a trainee/ cadet for 12-18 months)
- Take up a certification course or specialization (optional).
List of Top Merchant Navy Colleges in India
Here is a table listing some of the top colleges in India for studying merchant navy:
| College Name | Location |
| Indian Maritime University (IMU) | Chennai, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai |
| Tolani Maritime Institute | Pune |
| Anglo-Eastern Maritime Academy | Mumbai |
| Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies (GEIMS) | Mumbai |
| Institute of Maritime Studies (IMS) | Goa |
| Hindustan Institute of Maritime Training | Chennai |
| Samundra Institute of Maritime Training | Mumbai |
| Training Ship Rahaman | Mumbai |
Also Read: Best Merchant Navy Colleges in India
Syllabus/List of Subjects in Merchant Navy
The syllabus may vary slightly depending on the specific course and institution. However, there are some general topics included in the curriculum of almost all institutions like English, General Aptitude, Science, Mathematics, and General Knowledge.
The specialized subjects include:
- Navigation
- Seamanship
- Ship Construction
- Marine Engineering
- MARPOL
- Marine Communication
- Shipping Management
As a part of practical training, students are given:
- Sea Time: Hands-on experience at sea to apply theoretical knowledge.
- Simulator Training: Use of simulators to practice navigation and ship handling.
Merchant Navy Scope and Opportunities
The career prospects can range from shipping companies, naval architecture, maritime education, and maritime administration. The various ranks in the merchant navy are primarily:
A structured hierarchy ensures that every level of expertise and experience is utilized for the smooth functioning of maritime operations. As one climbs up the ladder, the perks and responsibilities go hand in hand. Additionally, merchant navy professionals often enjoy tax-free income and various other benefits, making it a lucrative career choice.
The salary range differs according to the designation acquired over time with experience.
1. Cadet: ₹20-50K per month
2. Third Officer: ₹50K-1lakh per month
3. Captain/Master: ₹2-5 lakh per month
Conclusion
Merchant Navy provides an opportunity to travel worldwide, experience different cultures, and develop valuable skills, with scope for rapid promotion and career advancement. It further fosters strong bonds and lifelong friendships.
However, the time spent away from family and friends can be lengthy, leading to emotional strain and displacement. The physical and mental demands of the job are high, with exposure to harsh weather conditions, safety risks, and stress. Furthermore, the continuous need for training and certification can be challenging. Despite these drawbacks, many find the rewards of a Merchant Navy career outweigh the difficulties.
Ultimately, a Merchant Navy job is ideal for individuals who value adventure, are willing to take risks, and prioritize professional growth. While it may not be suited for everyone, those who embark on this path often find it deeply fulfilling.
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FAQs
Is merchant navy a government job? Merchant navy is both a government and private job. If you work for the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), you work as a government employee. Apart from SCI, the majority of other companies in this field are private entities.
It is one of the best career options today. However, every career option has its own advantages and disadvantages. The same is the case here, you will experience both pros and cons of the Merchant Navy. Improve your social skills, by working with people from all over the world and getting to know their culture and food.
Generally, candidates should have completed the 12th grade with subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry. Minimum age requirements, medical fitness, and adherence to specific physical standards are also taken into consideration.
The Merchant Navy exams can be challenging, but they are certainly manageable with the right preparation. The difficulty level varies depending on the specific entrance exam you’re taking, such as the Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU CET) or other entrance tests for various maritime institutes.
Prachi, a student pursuing bachelor’s in English and Philosophy from University of Delhi is a knowledge-driven, hardworking individual. Having interest in content writing, research and still exploring other domains, she has a knack for learning.
