As a core functional unit of DG Shipping, the Wing actively works to:

• Formulate policies that strengthen navigational safety
• Oversee the quality of maritime education and training
• Implement measures that help prevent accidents and marine pollution

A major function of the Wing is ensuring compliance with key International Maritime Organization (IMO) conventions, such as:

• SOLAS - Safety of Life at Sea
• STCW - Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping
• MARPOL - Marine Pollution Prevention

These frameworks are vital in ensuring that both Indian and foreign-flagged vessels operating in Indian waters meet high safety and environmental standards.

The Wing also oversees Port State Control (PSC) inspections for foreign vessels calling at Indian ports—an essential mechanism to combat substandard shipping. In partnership with the Indian Coast Guard, it manages Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, bolstering India's maritime emergency response and safety preparedness.

By advancing policy reforms, embracing modern technology, and ensuring rigorous safety enforcement, the Nautical Wing strengthens the maritime sector, safeguards seafarers, and enhances India's contributions to global maritime excellence.

At the core of the Nautical Wing's operations are essential functions that ensure the integrity of India's maritime framework:

• Supervision of navigational safety and vessel operations
• Regulation of training, certification, and competency standards
• Implementation of IMO conventions such as SOLAS, STCW, and MARPOL
• Port State Control (PSC) inspections to ensure foreign vessel compliance
• Coordination of Search and Rescue (SAR) activities with Indian Coast Guard
• Promotion of marine environmental protection
• Policy formulation to enhance navigational safety and maritime infrastructure

Over the years, the Wing has evolved by learning from real-world challenges:

• Maritime casualties have driven improved safety protocols
• Crew welfare issues have led to the implementation of more humane onboard conditions

This continuous learning has shaped India's maritime legislative and operational framework. The Nautical Wing has led key reforms such as:

• Modernizing the STCW implementation framework
• Digitizing certification and navigational assessments
• Integrating e-Governance systems for transparency and efficiency

To position India as a leading maritime nation that is safe, skilled, and sustainable, through strategic regulation, capacity building, and technological advancement in the nautical domain.

To enhance navigational safety, promote professional excellence, enforce international standards, and contribute to India's long-term maritime goals through proactive governance and stakeholder collaboration.

The Wing's activities are aligned with India's broader maritime visions:

• Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 (MAKV)
  Supports India's long-term goal of becoming a global maritime power by advancing human capital, safe navigation, and technological innovation.
• Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV)
  Focuses on port-led development, digital transformation, and green shipping. In line with MIV, the Nautical Wing is:
  • Modernizing training institutions
  • Promoting gender inclusion in maritime careers
  • Advancing decarbonization goals through education and enforcement