How to get a job in the Merchant Navy and how to build a career in it after 12th?
The Merchant Navy is responsible for the safe and timely delivery of all these goods. Maritime trade is vital for a country like India. India has many large and small ports.
The sea is not just a place for recreation or vacations. It is the greatest force behind global trade. Nearly 90 percent of the world's goods are transported from one country to another by sea, whether it's crude oil, vehicles, grains, or everyday items. The Merchant Navy is responsible for the safe and timely delivery of all these goods. Maritime trade is crucial for a country like India. India has many large and small ports, where imports and exports worth crores of rupees take place every day.
For this reason, the Merchant Navy has become an attractive and high-paying career option for young people today. If you're looking for a different, exciting, and respectable career after 12th, the Merchant Navy could be a great option for you. Let's learn how to get a job in the Merchant Navy and how to build a career in it after 12th.
What is the Merchant Navy?
The Merchant Navy is a service that transports goods and passengers from one country to another by sea. It is not part of the military. It is often associated with the Indian Navy, but the two are distinct. The Indian Navy works to protect the country. The Merchant Navy's role is to transport goods through merchant ships. The Merchant Navy is a completely commercial sector, where salaries, promotions, and opportunities are determined by private companies.
How to Get a Job in the Merchant Navy
To get a job in the Merchant Navy, you must first complete a deck, engine, or GP rating course of your choice after 10th or 12th from an institution recognized by the Directorate General of Shipping. Degree courses typically require passing the Indian Maritime University's entrance exam. After completing the course and medical fitness, a CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) is obtained. Selection is then made through applications or campus placements at shipping companies, leading to a shipboard position as a trainee or cadet.
How to Build a Career in the Merchant Navy After 12th?
1. GP Rating Course - If you want to start a career early, the GP Rating Course is an entry-level option, lasting approximately 6 months and can be completed after 10th or 12th. After completing this course, you can begin working as a helper in the deck or engine department of a ship.
2. Deck Department - If you're interested in ship handling and navigation, you can join the Deck Department, which requires a Diploma in Nautical Science (1 year) or a BSc in Nautical Science (3 years). A career in this field begins with Deck Cadet, and based on experience and exams, you can advance to Third Officer, Second Officer, and eventually Captain.
3. Engine Department - If you're interested in machinery, engines, and technical work, the Engine Department, or Marine Engineering, is a good option. A 4-year B.Tech in Marine Engineering program is ideal for this, or if you already have an engineering degree, you can pursue a 1-year Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) course. In this department, you can start as a Junior Engineer and, through experience and promotion, advance to Chief Engineer.
4. Electro-Technical Officer - If you've studied electrical or electronics, you can take an ETO course and become responsible for the ship's electronic systems.
What is the salary?
The Merchant Navy is considered a high-paying career option, but the salary depends on the position, experience, and type of ship. Initially, when a candidate joins as a deck cadet, GP rating, or junior engineer, their salary typically ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per month. As experience increases and a person reaches officer rank, the salary can range from ₹100,000 to ₹300,000 per month. If someone reaches a top position like captain or chief engineer, their monthly income can range from ₹800,000 to ₹150,000 or even more.
