Merchant Navy Salary in India: The Merchant Navy is an essential part of the global shipping industry, providing lucrative career opportunities for individuals interested in maritime professions.
In India, the Merchant Navy offers attractive salaries, diverse job profiles, specialized courses, and competitive entrance exams.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Merchant Navy salary in India, the various job profiles available, the courses you can pursue, and the entrance exams required to join this prestigious field.
Merchant Navy Salary in India
Merchant Navy Salary is one of the main attractions for many aspiring mariners. The salary structure in the Merchant Navy is highly competitive and varies based on the rank, experience, and type of vessel. The current salary in India paid as per 7th Pay Commission for government employees and 8th Pay Commission will be applicable from 2026.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the average salaries across different positions in the Merchant Navy:
| Rank | Average Monthly Salary (INR) | Average Annual Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Cadet | ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹4,80,000 |
| Third Officer | ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 | ₹6,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 |
| Second Officer | ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000 | ₹12,00,000 – ₹24,00,000 |
| Chief Officer | ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,00,000 | ₹30,00,000 – ₹48,00,000 |
| Captain | ₹5,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 | ₹60,00,000 – ₹1,20,00,000 |
In addition to the Merchant Navy Salary (base salary), personnel receive various perks such as free boarding and lodging, travel allowances, and tax benefits, further enhancing their overall compensation package.
Job Profiles in the Merchant Navy
The Merchant Navy offers a variety of job profiles, each with its own set of responsibilities and challenges. Here are some of the key roles in the Merchant Navy:
| Department | Job Profile | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Department | Deck Cadet, Third Officer, Second Officer, Chief Officer, Captain | Navigation, cargo handling, overall vessel management |
| Engine Department | Engine Cadet, Fourth Engineer, Third Engineer, Second Engineer, Chief Engineer | Management of ship’s machinery, engines, and power systems |
| Catering Department | Chief Cook, Steward | Food preparation, hygiene, and crew well-being |
Courses for Joining the Merchant Navy
To join the Merchant Navy in India, you need to pursue specialized courses that equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge. Some of the prominent courses include:
| Course Name | Duration | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| B.Sc. Nautical Science | 3 years | Preparation for a career as deck officers |
| B.E./B.Tech. Marine Engineering | 4 years | Marine machinery and systems |
| Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) | 1 year + 18 months sea service | Nautical science fundamentals and practical sea experience |
| G.P. Rating | 6 months | Entry-level positions in the deck and engine departments |
These courses are offered by various maritime academies and institutes across India, approved by the Directorate General of Shipping.
Entrance Exams for the Merchant Navy
To gain admission to Merchant Navy courses, candidates must clear entrance exams that assess their aptitude and knowledge. Some of the key entrance exams include:
| Entrance Exam | Conducting Body | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| IMU CET | Indian Maritime University | Admission to various UG and PG courses in the Merchant Navy |
| JEE Advanced | IITs | Admission to Marine Engineering and Research Institute (MERI) |
| TMI SAT | Tolani Maritime Institute | Admission to maritime courses at Tolani Maritime Institute |
Conclusion
A career in the Merchant Navy offers a unique blend of adventure, high salary, and job satisfaction. With the right education, training, and dedication, you can achieve significant growth and success in this field.
Whether you are drawn by the attractive merchant navy salary, diverse job profiles, or the prospect of traveling the world, the Merchant Navy provides a fulfilling and prosperous career path.
FAQs
1. What is the average starting Merchant Navy Salary in India? The average starting salary for a Deck Cadet in the Merchant Navy is between ₹25,000 and ₹40,000 per month.
2. What are the main departments in the Merchant Navy? The main departments in the Merchant Navy are the Deck Department, Engine Department, and Catering Department.
3. Which entrance exam is mandatory for admission to Merchant Navy courses in India? The IMU CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test) is mandatory for admission to various UG and PG courses in the Merchant Navy.
4. What is the duration of the B.Sc. Nautical Science course? The B.Sc. Nautical Science course is a three-year program.
5. Can Merchant Navy personnel receive tax benefits? Yes, Merchant Navy personnel often receive tax benefits, along with other perks such as free boarding and lodging.