What Is The Indian C.D.C.? & How Can I Avail It?

In the vast oceans, brave seafarers embark on extraordinary journeys, connecting continents and leaving their mark on distant shores. Imagine a life where your office is a ship, your co-workers become your second family, and every sunrise brings a new horizon to explore. It’s a life filled with challenges, resilience, and the unyielding desire to conquer the unknown. At the heart of this seafaring realm lies a document that serves as both a guardian of identity and a ticket to boundless opportunities – the Continuous Discharge Certificate-cum-Seafarer’s Identity Document, affectionately known as the Indian CDC. For those who yearn to sail the oceans, this humble paper becomes the gateway to a life of exploration, challenges, and camaraderie.

Significance of Continuous Discharge Certificate (C.D.C.) for Seafarers

A sailor’s passport to the vast oceans, the Indian C.D.C. holds profound importance as a seafarer’s identity document issued by their home country. Governed by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, with amendments in 2010, this document officially certifies an individual as a qualified seaman.

1. An Essential Identity Document:

Every seafarer must carry their C.D.C. while on board, as it serves as their official identification and legal record of sea experience. With the master of the vessel signing the document upon a seaman’s departure, it becomes a testament to their accumulated experience during their time on board.

2. Validity and Renewal:

Under STCW rules, a C.D.C. is typically valid for five years, and renewal can be requested within six months before its expiration. If the holder is an active seaman and their C.D.C. has not been canceled, withdrawn, or suspended, it may be renewed for another five years.

3. Onboard Validity:

If a seafarer’s C.D.C. expires during a voyage, it remains valid until the voyage’s conclusion, ensuring smooth continuity without interrupting their sea service.

Who Can Apply for C.D.C. in India?

The Continuous Discharge Certificate is a vital document for individuals aspiring to pursue a career in the maritime industry in India. To be eligible to apply for Indian C.D.C., candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: The applicant must be a Citizen of India, with valid proof of Indian nationality.
• Age Requirement: Candidates should be above 18 years of age when applying for the C.D.C.
• Educational Qualification: The minimum educational requirement is to have passed the 10th standard (Secondary School Certificate) from a recognized board or university.
• Indian Passport: Applicants must possess a valid Indian Passport, which is an important supporting document for the C.D.C. application.
• STCW Safety Courses: The candidate should have completed the basic five Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Safety Courses from a Directorate General of Shipping (D.G. Shipping) approved Training Centre. These courses are essential for ensuring seafarers are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely handle various situations at sea.
• Medical Fitness Certificate: Before applying for the C.D.C., the candidate must undergo a medical examination by a DG Shipping-approved Doctor. The Medical Fitness Certificate confirms that the individual is physically fit and meets the health standards required for a career at sea.

Documents Required for Applying Indian C.D.C. Online:

Before initiating the online application process for an Indian C.D.C. (Continuous Discharge Certificate), aspiring seafarers need to gather and prepare the following essential documents:

Scanned Passport Size Photograph (3.5 CM * 3.5 CM):

• The photograph must have a white background.
• The face should be visible and cover at least 70% of the photo.

Scanned Signature of the Seafarer (1.5 CM * 3.5 CM):

• The signature should be done with a black pen.
• The size of the scanned signature must meet the specified dimensions.

Colored Scanned Copy of All Pages of the Original Passport:

• Ensure the scanned copy includes all passport pages, including blank pages and pages with visa stamps.

Colored Scanned Copy of the Original Medical Certificate:

• A DG Shipping-approved Doctor should issue the medical certificate, certifying the applicant’s physical fitness for a maritime career.

Colored Scanned Copy of the 10th Pass Mark Sheet:

• This document serves as proof of the applicant’s educational qualification and must be scanned in color.

Colored Scanned Copies of All 5 Basic STCW Courses:

• The scanned copies of the certificates for the basic five Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Safety Courses must be included.

Colored Scanned Copy of Any Government Approved Address Proof:

• Acceptable address proofs include an Aadhaar card, Driving License, or Voter ID, and it should be scanned in color.

Importance of STCW Course

In the vast ocean of maritime opportunities, the Indian C.D.C. acts as a compass, guiding aspiring seafarers toward a fulfilling career at sea. The journey to obtaining this prized document, however, requires the completion of the essential Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) courses. These courses not only equip seafarers with the necessary skills and knowledge but also play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the global maritime industry.

The STCW courses hold immense significance as they cover a range of critical subjects, including personal safety, firefighting, first aid, survival techniques, and maritime security. By imparting these fundamental skills, the courses prepare seafarers to tackle challenges that may arise during their voyages, instilling confidence and resilience.

How Can Training Ship Varren Help?

Training Ship Varren is a beacon for aspiring seafarers, providing exemplary STCW courses that meet D.G. Shipping E-learning guidelines. With advanced facilities and experienced instructors, participants receive a top-notch education and hands-on training. Armed with a C.D.C. and valuable knowledge, seafarers set sail with determination, leaving a mark on the world’s oceans. Our commitment goes beyond certification; we nurture safety-conscious mariners who contribute significantly to the thriving maritime industry. Together, we build a safer future guided by competence and compassion. Training Ship Varren, where maritime dreams find wings to soar.