Bharat Saini
Last Updated on December 18, 2024 by Bharat Saini
If you’ve ever dreamt of working at sea, exploring the vast oceans, and earning a lucrative salary, the merchant navy might just be the career for you. But what exactly is the merchant navy? Unlike the defense navy, which serves national security, the Indian merchant navy focuses on commercial shipping. It plays a crucial role in international trade, transporting goods, oil, and other resources across the globe.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about a career in the merchant navy—from the merchant navy salary to the job profiles, eligibility criteria, courses, entrance exams, and more. Whether you’re a student wondering how to join the merchant navy after 12th, or someone exploring career options, this guide will provide all the answers.
Merchant Navy Salary & Job Profile
The merchant navy salary is one of the primary attractions for individuals considering this field. The pay varies depending on your rank, experience, and the type of ship you’re working on. Let’s break it down:
Job Profiles in the Merchant Navy
The merchant navy offers diverse roles, each with its unique responsibilities:
| Role | Responsibilities |
| Deck Officers | Navigation, ship’s safety, and cargo management. |
| Engineers | Maintenance and operation of ship machinery. |
| Ratings | Assistance with routine tasks on deck and in engine rooms. |
| Catering Department | Management of food and accommodation onboard. |
Qualifications for Available Posts
| Post | Qualification | Age Limit |
| Deck Cadet | 10+2 with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics). | 17-25 years |
| Trainee Marine Engineer | B.E./B.Tech in Marine or Mechanical Engineering. | 17-25 years |
| Electro-Technical Officer | Diploma/Degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering. | 18-30 years |
| General Purpose Rating | 10th pass with minimum 40% marks and English proficiency. | 17-25 years |
| Catering Crew | 10th pass or relevant hospitality experience. | 18-35 years |
Merchant Navy Salary
One of the biggest draws of this profession is the attractive salary package. Here’s a breakdown of salaries across different ranks:
| Rank | Monthly Salary (₹) |
| Trainee Cadet | 50,000 – 75,000 |
| Third Officer | 1,50,000 – 2,20,000 |
| Second Officer | 2,50,000 – 3,50,000 |
| Chief Officer | 4,00,000 – 6,00,000 |
| Captain | 6,00,000 – 10,00,000+ |
For engineers, salaries follow a similar structure, with chief engineers earning amounts comparable to captains.
Factors Influencing Merchant Navy Salary
- Type of Ship: Oil tankers and gas carriers often pay higher than cargo ships.
- Experience: More experience means better pay and quicker promotions.
- Shipping Company: Reputed international companies offer higher salaries compared to smaller firms.
Merchant Navy Salary in India
In India, entry-level salaries are relatively high compared to many other professions. A deck cadet or a trainee engineer can earn around ₹50,000 to ₹75,000 per month, which increases significantly with experience. Additionally, Indian shipping companies like SCI (Shipping Corporation of India) offer competitive packages for officers and ratings alike.
Apart from salaries, professionals in the Indian merchant navy enjoy perks such as tax-free income (when working outside Indian waters), free accommodation onboard, and travel opportunities to different parts of the world.
Merchant Navy Courses: Entrance Exam 2024
If you’re wondering how to join the merchant navy after 12th, the first step is enrolling in a suitable course. These courses prepare you for roles as deck officers, engineers, or other ship staff. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the available courses and the entrance exams you need to clear:
Top Merchant Navy Entrance Exams 2024
| Exam | Conducted By | Focus Areas |
| IMU CET | Indian Maritime University | PCM subjects and English. |
| JEE Advanced | National Testing Agency (NTA) | Engineering-related subjects. |
| TMI SAT | Tolani Maritime Institute | Scholastic Aptitude. |
| AIMNET | Bharat Shipping Limited | General maritime knowledge. |
| Company-Sponsored Exams | Various shipping companies | Company-specific requirements. |
Eligibility for Merchant Navy Courses
- Age: The merchant navy age limit is typically 17 to 25 years.
- Education: Must have passed 10+2 with physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
- Medical: Candidates should have good eyesight and physical fitness.
Courses Available for Merchant Navy
| Course | Duration | Focus |
| B.Sc. Nautical Science | 3 years | Prepares for navigation officer roles. |
| B.E./B.Tech in Marine Engineering | 4 years | Focuses on ship’s machinery and operations. |
| Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) | 1 year | Leads to a B.Sc. Nautical Science degree. |
| General Purpose Rating (GP Rating) | 6 months | Entry-level course for deck and engine ratings. |
| Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) | 4-6 months | Specializes in ship’s electrical systems. |
| GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) | 1 year | For mechanical engineers entering the industry. |
| MBA in Shipping and Logistics | 2 years | Managerial aspects of maritime operations. |
| Certificate Courses in Catering | 6 months | Prepares candidates for onboard hospitality roles. |
Merchant Navy Courses Fees
| Course | Fees (₹) |
| B.Sc. Nautical Science | 3,00,000 – 5,00,000 |
| Marine Engineering | 4,00,000 – 8,00,000 |
| GP Rating | 1,00,000 – 1,50,000 |
| Electro-Technical Officer | 2,00,000 – 3,00,000 |
Conclusion
A career in the Indian merchant navy is not just about earning a handsome merchant navy salary but also about adventure, global exposure, and professional growth. Whether you aim to be a deck officer or an engineer, the opportunities are vast. With the right qualifications and dedication, you can set sail towards a fulfilling career.
Merchant Navy Related FAQs
What is the average starting salary in the Merchant Navy in India?
The average starting salary ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000 per month for roles like deck cadets or trainee engineers.
What are the top Merchant Navy courses in India?
The top courses include:
- B.Sc. Nautical Science
- Marine Engineering
- Diploma in Nautical Science
- GP Rating
- Electro-Technical Officer Course
What are the top entrance exams for joining the Merchant Navy in India?
The top entrance exams include:
- IMU CET
- JEE Advanced
- TMI SAT
- AIMNET
- Company-Sponsored Exams
What is the cost of Merchant Navy training in India?
The training costs depend on the course. For instance:
- B.Sc. Nautical Science: ₹3,00,000 to ₹5,00,000
- Marine Engineering: ₹4,00,000 to ₹8,00,000
- GP Rating: ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000
