CIRCULAR No. 50/2001-CUS Dated 26th September, 2001
Subject:-Operation of foreign flag vessels along the
Indian coast without a valid licence issued under the M.S. Act, 1958 - reg.
I am directed to refer to Board's Circular No. 53/99-Cus., dated the 24.8.1999
as amended by Circular No. 70/2000-Cus., dated 30.8.2000 on the above mentioned
subject. The said Circular was issued to enforce the licensing requirements of
the Sections 406/407 of the Marine Shipping Act, 1958 for foreign flag vessels
which call at Indian Ports. It has been pointed out by the Directorate General
of Shipping that a foreign flag vessel which is chartered by an Indian citizen
or company or co-operative society, will require a licence under section 406 of
the said Act from D.G. Shipping for operation within or outside India similar to
any Indian ship.
2. In view of above, it has been decided that the Board's Circular No.
53/99-Customs, dated 24th August, 1999 would stand modified to the above extent,
that is to say, a foreign flag vessel chartered by an Indian citizen or company
or co-operative society, would require a licence under section 406 of the Marine
Shipping Act, 1958 from D.G. Shipping for operation within or outside India.
3. These requirements may be brought to the notice of all concerned by way of
issuance of suitable Public Notice/Standing Orders.
4. Difficulties, if any, in implementation of this Circular may be brought to
the notice of the Board. Kindly acknowledge receipt of the Circular.
Sd/-
(Rajendra Singh)
Under Secretary to the Government of India