Full Text
REGD. No. D. L.-33004/99
The Gazette of India
CG-DL-E-13072026-274436
EXTRAORDINARY
PART II-Section 3-Sub-section (i)
PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY
No. 523]
NEW DELHI, TUESDAY, JULY 7, 2026/ASHADHA 16, 1948
5097 GI/2026
(1)
2 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II—SEC. 3(i)]
(ii) existing vessel, which undergo alterations, or modifications, which the administration deems to be of a substantial variation in their existing gross tonnage;
(iii) existing vessel, if the owner thereof so requests in writing; and
(iv) all other existing vessels, on and after the 18th day of July, 1994, subject to the exclusions specified in Article 4 of the convention;
(5) Nothing in these rules shall apply to any vessel that is excluded under Article 4 of the convention.
(6) For the purposes of these rules-
(a) an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) shall be required for every Indian vessel of 24 meters in length and above engaged on international voyages;
(b) an India Tonnage Certificate shall be issued to—
(i) Indian vessels not engaged on international voyages, or
(ii) Indian vessels below 24 meters in length, the tonnages of which have been determined under these rules.
2. Definitions. — (1) In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires-
(a) "Act" means the Merchant Shipping Act, (2025) (24 of 2025);
(b) "convention" means the 1969 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, as amended;
(c) "existing vessel" means a vessel which is not a new vessel;
(d) "gross tonnage" means the measure of the overall size of the vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(e) "net tonnage" means the measure of the useful capacity of vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(f) "new vessel" means a vessel the keel of which is laid, or which is at a similar stage of construction, on or after the date specified in Article 3 of the convention;
(g) "weathertight" means that in any sea condition water will not penetrate into the vessel;
(h) “length”, “breadth” and “moulded depth” shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(i) “Schedule” means the Schedule annexed to these rules;
(j) “substantial variation” means an increase or decrease of more than one per cent. in the gross tonnage calculated in accordance with the convention, or any other alteration which, in the opinion of the Director-General, materially affects the gross tonnage or net tonnage of the vessel.
3
(3) The Director-General shall remain responsible for every determination of tonnage carried out under this rule.
(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in these rules or in the First Schedule, where the Director-General is satisfied that, in the case of a vessel of a novel type, unconventional design or special purpose, the direct application of the provisions of the First Schedule would be unreasonable, impracticable or would not result in a fair determination of gross tonnage or net tonnage, the Director-General may determine such tonnages by such alternative method or methods as it considers appropriate, having due regard to the principles of the convention.
(5) The Director-General shall, as soon as practicable, communicate to the International Maritime Organization the particulars of any determination made under sub-rule (4), including the reasons for adopting such alternative method and the gross tonnage and net tonnage so determined.
4. Remeasurement of tonnage.— (1) Where the tonnage of a vessel has been, or is deemed to have been, determined under these rules, such tonnage shall remain in force unless—
(a) any alteration is made in the form, construction, arrangement, capacity, or use of spaces of the vessel that would affect the gross tonnage or net tonnage; or
(b) It is discovered that the tonnage was erroneously computed.
(2) In any case referred to in sub-rule (1), the vessel shall be remeasured, and it's tonnage determined afresh in accordance with rule 3 and the First Schedule.
(3) Upon remeasurement, the surveyor shall record the revised tonnage and the Director-General shall issue a revised certificate, as applicable.
5. Issue of certificate.— (1) An International Tonnage Certificate (1969) shall be issued in the form set out in the Second Schedule to every Indian vessel of 24 meters in length and above engaged on international voyages, the gross tonnage and net tonnage of which have been determined in accordance with these rules.
(2) An India Tonnage Certificate shall be issued in the form of set out in Third Schedule to every Indian vessel not engaged on international voyages, the tonnages of which have been determined in accordance with these rules.
(3) Every certificate under this rule shall be issued by the Director-General, or by a surveyor, or by any person or body authorised by the Director-General under section 9 of the Act to perform such functions.
(4) The Director-General shall remain responsible for all certificates issued under these rules, irrespective of the surveyor that carries out the determination or signs the certificate.
6. Tonnage ascertained in foreign countries.— (1) Where the tonnage of a vessel has been ascertained in accordance with the rules in force in a State that is a contracting government to the convention, or in accordance with the rules which are substantially similar to these rules, the Director-General may accept the tonnage specified in the certificate of registry issued by that State in the same manner, to the same extent and for the same purpose as the tonnage indicated in the certificate of registry issued under these rules.
(2) Notwithstanding sub-rule (1), where the Director-General is of the opinion that the tonnage of a foreign vessel, as ascertained by the rules of the State whose flag the vessel is entitled to fly, differs materially from the tonnage that would result from measurement under these rules, the Director-General may direct that the vessel be remeasured and that its tonnage be determined in accordance with these rules.
7. Cancellation of certificate and validity of certificate.— (1) A tonnage certificate issued under these rules shall cease to be valid and shall be cancelled by the Director-General if alterations have taken place in the arrangement, construction, capacity, use of spaces, total number of passengers the vessel is permitted to carry as indicated in the vessel's certificates, assigned load line or permitted draught of the vessel, such as would necessitate an increase in gross tonnage or net tonnage.
4 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
use, total number of passengers the vessel is permitted to carry as indicated in the vessel's certificates, assigned load line or permitted draught of the vessel, such as would necessitate an increase in gross tonnage or net tonnage.
(2) A certificate issued to a vessel under these rules shall cease to be valid upon transfer of such a vessel from the Indian flag, except as provided in sub-rule (3).
(3) Upon transfer of an Indian vessel to the flag of another State the Government of which is a contracting government to the convention, the tonnage certificate issued under these rules shall remain in force for a period not exceeding three months, or until that State issues another International Tonnage Certificate (1969) to replace it, whichever is the earlier. The Director-General shall transmit to that State, as soon as possible after the transfer takes place, a copy of the certificate carried by the vessel at the time of transfer and a copy of the relevant tonnage calculations, when so requested.
(4) Upon transfer of a vessel to Indian flag from the flag of another State the government of which is a contracting government to the convention, the tonnage certificate of the vessel issued by that State shall remain in force for a period not exceeding three months, or until the Director-General issues another tonnage certificate to replace it, whichever is earlier. The Director-General may request the previous flag administration, a copy of the certificate carried by the vessel at the time of transfer and a copy of the relevant tonnage calculations.
8. Inspection. — (1) A vessel flying the flag of a State that is a contracting government to the convention, when such vessel is within India, including coastal waters, shall be subject to inspection by officers duly authorised by the Director-General for the purpose of verifying-
(a) that the vessel is provided with a valid International Tonnage Certificate (1969); and
(b) that the main characteristics of the vessel correspond to the data given in the certificate. In no case, the exercise of such inspection shall cause any delay to the vessel.
(2) When such inspection reveal that the main characteristics of the vessel differ from those entered on the tonnage certificate so as to lead to an increase in the gross tonnage or the net tonnage, the government of the State whose flag the vessel is flying shall be informed without delay.
9. Suez Canal and Panama Canal tonnage certificate. —Where a request is received from the owner of a vessel for the measurement of that vessel for the purpose of the issue of a Suez Canal Tonnage Certificate or a Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate, the vessel shall be remeasured by a surveyor authorised by the Director-General, and its tonnage determined in accordance with the rules and requirements issued by the Suez Canal Authority or the Panama Canal Authority, as the case may be.
10. Fees. Fees shall be levied under rules at the rates and for the purposes specified in the Fourth Schedule.
FIRST SCHEDULE
Determination of gross and net tonnages
(See rule 3)
1. Definitions. For the purposes of this Schedule, unless the context otherwise requires—
(a) "breadth" means the maximum breadth of the vessel, measured amidships to the moulded frame line in a vessel with a metal shell, and to the outer surface of the hull in a vessel with a shell of any other material.
(b) "break" means the space above the line of upper deck when the deck is cut off and continue at a higher elevation.
5
(c) "cargo space" means enclosed spaces appropriated for the carriage of cargo that are included in the computation of gross tonnage, and which are certified by the Surveyor and permanently marked with the letters “CC”, each letter being not less than 100 millimetres in height and positioned where readily visible.
(d) "enclosed space" are all those spaces which are bounded by the vessel's hull, by fixed or portable partitions or bulkheads, by decks or coverings other than permanent or movable awnings. No break in a deck, nor any opening in the vessel's hull, in a deck or in a covering of a space, or in the partitions or bulkheads of a space, nor the absence of a partition or bulkhead, shall preclude a space from being included in the enclosed space.
(e) "excluded space" means space of the following description, namely:-
(i)(A) space within an erection opposite an end opening extending from deck to deck except for a curtain plate of a depth not exceeding by more than 25 milimeteres the depth of the adjoining beams, such opening having a breadth equal to or greater than 90 per cent. of the breadth of the deck at the line of opening of the space. This provision shall be applied so as to exclude from the enclosed spaces only the space between the actual and opening and a line drawn parallel to the line or face of the opening at a distance from the opening equal to one half of the width of the deck at the line of the opening (see Figure 1 in APPENDIX I) ;
(B) where the width of the space because of any arrangement (except by convergence of the outside plating) become less than 90 per cent. of the breadth of the deck, only the space between the line of the opening and a parallel line drawn through the point where the athwart vessel width of the space becomes equal to, or less than 90 per cent. of the breadth of the deck, shall be excluded from the volume of enclosed spaces (see Figures 2,3 and 4 in APPENDIX I) ;
(C) where an interval which is completely open except bulwarks or open rails separates any two spaces, the exclusion of one or both of which is permitted under sub-clause (A) and/or (B) of sub-paragraph (i), such exclusion shall not apply if the separation between the two spaces is less than least half breadth of the deck in way of the separation (see Figure 5 and 6 in APPENDIX I) ;
(ii) a space under an overhead deck covering open to the sea and weather, having no other connection on the exposed sides with the body of the vessel than the
6 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
stanchions necessary for its support. In such a space open rails or bulwark and curtain plate may be fitted or stanchions fitted at the vessel's side, provided that the distance between the top of the rails or the bulwark and the curtain plate is not less than 0.75 meters or one-third of the height of the space, whichever is the greater (see Figure 7 in APPENDIX I) ;
(iii) a space in a side to side erection directly in way of opposite side openings not less in height than 0.75 meters or one-third of the height of the erection, whichever is greater. If the opening in such an erection is provided one side only, the space to be excluded from the volume of enclosed space shall be limited inboard from the opening to a maximum of one-half of the breadth of the deck in way of the opening (see Figure 8 in APPENDIX I);
(iv) a space in an erection immediately below an uncovered opening in the deck overhead, provided that such an opening is exposed to the weather and the space excluded from enclosed spaces is limited to the area of the opening (see Figure 9 in APPENDIX I) ;
(v) a recess in the boundary of an erection which is exposed to the weather and the opening of which extends from deck to deck without means of closing, provided that the interior width is not greater than the width at the entrance and its extension into the erection is not greater than twice the width of its entrance (see Figure 10 in APPENDIX I) ;and such spaces shall not be included in the volume of enclosed spaces except that any such space which fulfils at least one of the following three conditions shall be treated as an enclosed space
(A) the space is fitted with shelves or other means for securing cargo or stores;
(B) the openings are fitted with any means of closure;
(C) the construction provides any possibility of such opening being closed.
(f) "length" means 96 per cent. of the total length on a waterline at 85 per cent. of the least moulded depth measured from the top of the keel, or the length from the fore-side of the stem to the axis of the rudder stock on that waterline, if that be greater. In vessels designed with a rake of keel the waterline on which this length is measured shall be parallel to the designed waterline:
(i) where a vessel does not have a rudder stock, the length shall be taken as 96 per cent. of the total length on a waterline at 85 per cent. of the least moulded depth measured from the top of the keel;
(ii) where a vessel does not have a clearly defined stem or stern, including column-stabilised units, submersibles, floating docks and similar craft, the length shall be taken as 96 per cent. of the total length on the applicable waterline;
(iii) where more than one rudder is fitted, the aftermost rudder stock shall be considered the rudder stock for the purpose of determining the length.
7
(g) "moulded depth" means,
(i) the vertical distance measured from the top of the keel to the underside of the upper deck at side. In wood and composite vessels the distance is measured from the lower edge of the keel rabbet. Where the form at the lower part of the midship section is of a hollow character, or where thick garboards are fitted, the distance is measured from the point where the line of the flat of the bottom continue inwards cuts the side of the keel;
(ii) in vessels having rounded gunwales, the depth measured to the point of intersection of the moulded lines of the deck and side shell plating, the lines extending as though the gunwales were of angular design (see Figure 11 in APPENDIX I) ;
(iii) in vessels where the upper deck is stepped and the raised part of the deck extends over the point at which the depth is to be determined, the depth measured to a line of reference extending from the lower part of the deck along a line parallel with the raised part.
(h) “perpendiculars” means the forward and after perpendiculars, which shall be taken at the forward and after ends of the length (L). The forward perpendicular shall coincide with the foreside of the stem on the waterline on which the length is measured.
(i) "upper deck" means the uppermost complete deck exposed to sea and weather fitted as an integral part of the vessel's structure being a deck all openings in weather, portions of which are fitted with permanent means of weathertight closing arrangements and below which openings in the sides of the vessels are fitted with permanent means of watertight closing and in a vessel having a stepped upper deck, the lowest line of the exposed deck and continuation of that line parallel to the upper part of the deck shall be taken as the upper deck:
Provided that steps with length of not more than 2.4 meters of which do not extend over the full breadth of the vessel may not be taken into account when determining the line of upper deck.
(j) “least moulded depth" means the minimum moulded depth of the vessel occurring at any point along its length, determined in accordance with the definition of moulded depth in clause (g), and taking into account any steps, breaks or discontinuities in the upper deck.
2. Gross Tonnage. The gross tonnage (GT) of a vessel shall be determined by the following formula:
GT = K₁V
where V= Total volume of all enclosed spaces of the vessel in cubic metres.
K1=0.2+0.02logV (or as tabulated in APPENDIX II):
Provided that in the case of Indian vessels of less than 24 metres in length, the gross tonnage (GT) may be determined by the following formula:
GT = 0.23 LBD, where
L = length as defined in clause (f) of paragraph 1.
8 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
B = breadth as defined in clause (a) of paragraph 1.
D = moulded depth as defined in clause (g) of paragraph 1.
3. Net Tonnage . —
(1) The net tonnage (NT) of a vessel shall be determined by the following formula :
NT = K2Vc [4D/3D]² + K3 (N1 + N2/10), in which formula :-
(a) the factor [4D/3D]² shall not be taken as greater than unity;
the term K2V [4D/3D]² shall not be taken as less than 0.25 GT ; and
NT shall not be taken as less than 0.30 GT, and in which V = total volume of cargo spaces in cubic metres.
K2 = 0.2 + 0.02 log10Vc (or as tabulated in APPENDIX II.)
D = moulded depth amidships in metres as defined in clause (g) of paragraph 1
d = moulded draught amidships in metres as defined in sub-paragraph(2).
K3 = 1.25 GT + 10,000 / 10,000
N1 = Number of passengers in cabins with not more than 8 berths,
N2 = Number of other passengers,
N1 + N2 = total number of passengers the vessel is permitted to carry as indicated in the vessel's passenger certificate, when N1 + N2 is less than 13, N1 and N2 shall be taken as zero,
GT = Gross tonnage of the vessel as determined in accordance with the provisions of rule:
Provided that in respect of Indian vessels of less than 24 metres in length, the net tonnage (NT) may be determined by the following formula:
NT = 0.20 LBD, where
L = aggregate length of cargo spaces from bulk head to bulk head.
B = breadth as defined in clause (a) of paragraph 1.
D = moulded depth as defined in clause (g) of paragraph 1.
provided further that NT shall not be less than 0.30 GT.
(2) The moulded draught referred to in sub-paragraph (1) is equal to moulded draught amidships in metres derived as follows:
(i) for vessels to which load line rules apply, the draught corresponding to the summer load line (other than timber load lines) assigned in accordance with those rules;
(ii) for passenger vessels, the draught corresponding to the deepest sub division load line assigned in accordance with the applicable rules made under the Act;
(iii) for vessels not assigned load lines in accordance with load line rules the maximum permitted draught or 75% of moulded depth amidship, as the case may be.
9
4. Calculations of volumes.— (1) All volumes included in the calculation of gross and net tonnage shall be measured, irrespective of the fitting of insulation or the like, to the inner side of the shell or structural boundary plating in vessels constructed of metal, and to the outer surface of the shell or to the inner side of structural boundary surface in vessels constructed of any other material.
(2) Volumes of appendages shall be included in the total volume. Spaces used both for ballast and cargo should be included as cargo spaces.
(3) Volumes of spaces open to the sea may be excluded from the total volume.
(4) In accessible masts, king posts, air trunks and similar erections outside of and separated on all their sides from enclosed spaces and having cross sectional areas not exceeding one square metre should not be measured. similarly, independent enclosed spaces of a volume not exceeding one cubic metre shall not be measured.
(Note: Volume of spaces under pontoon hatch cover shall be included in the enclosed volume. The volume of spaces under such hatch cover underside of which are open are to be included in the Volume of cargo space also.)
5. Measurement and calculations. — (1) All measurement used in the calculation of volumes shall be to the nearest centimetre. Final tonnage Figures obtained in accordance with paragraphs 2 and 3 shall be rounded off to the nearest unit without decimals.
(2) The underdeck volume shall be calculated by methods providing accuracy acceptable to the Director-General. However, the methods to be adopted will be one or a combination of the following methods :
(i) Suitable computer programme; or
(ii) Manual integration of cross sectional areas of the hull at transverse sections obtained by following divisions of the length of upperdeck :
After extremity to After Perpendicular | Two equal intervals
Forward 20% and After 20% of the length between the After and Forward Perpendiculars | Four equal intervals
Centre 60% of the length between After and Forward Perpendiculars | Six equal intervals
Forward Perpendicular to Forward most extremity | Two equal intervals
These cross sectional areas may be obtained by using planimeter or from the “Section Area Curves" or the "Bonjean's Curves” or by the manual integration method or measurement of the transverse section given in APPENDIX III; or
(iii) By physical measurement in accordance with APPENDIX III.
10 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
In the following figures: O = excluded space
C = enclosed space
I = space to be considered as an enclosed space
Hatched in parts to be included as enclosed spaces.
B = breadth of the deck in way of the opening.
In ships with rounded gunwales the breadth is measured as indicated in Figure 11.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
11
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
12 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
Fig. 10
SHIPS WITH ROUNDED GUNWALES
Fig. 11
13
APPENDIX II
(See paragraphs 2 and 3 of the First Schedule)
COEFFICIENTS K1 AND K2 REFERRED TO IN PARAGRAPHS 2 and 3
V OR VC = Volume in cubic meters
V or Vc | K1 or K2 | V or Vc | K1 or K2 | V or Vc | K1 or K2 | V or Vc | K1 or K2
10 | 0.2200 | 45000 | 0.2931 | 330000 | 0.3104 | 670000 | 0.3165
20 | 0.2260 | 50000 | 0.2940 | 340000 | 0.3106 | 680000 | 0.3166
30 | 0.2295 | 55000 | 0.2948 | 350000 | 0.3109 | 690000 | 0.3168
40 | 0.2320 | 60000 | 0.2956 | 360000 | 0.3111 | 700000 | 0.316
50 | 0.2340 | 65000 | 0.2963 | 370000 | 0.3114 | 710000 | 0.3179
60 | 0.2356 | 70000 | 0.2969 | 380000 | 0.3116 | 720000 | 0.3170
70 | 0.2369 | 75000 | 0.2975 | 380000 | 0.3118 | 730000 | 0.3171
80 | 0.2381 | 80000 | 0.2981 | 390000 | 0.3120 | 740000 | 0.3173
90 | 0.2391 | 85000 | 0.2986 | 400000 | 0.3123 | 750000 | 0.3174
100 | 0.2400 | 90000 | 0.2991 | 410000 | 0.3125 | 760000 | 0.3175
200 | 0.2460 | 95000 | 0.2996 | 420000 | 0.3127 | 770000 | 0.3176
300 | 0.2495 | 100000 | 0.3000 | 430000 | 0.3129 | 780000 | 0.3177
400 | 0.2520 | 110000 | 0.3008 | 440000 | 0.3131 | 790000 | 0.3188
500 | 0.2540 | 120000 | 0.3016 | 450000 | 0.3133 | 800000 | 0.3180
600 | 0.2556 | 130000 | 0.3023 | 460000 | 0.3134 | 810000 | 0.3181
700 | 0.2569 | 140000 | 0.3029 | 470000 | 0.3136 | 820000 | 0.3182
800 | 0.2581 | 150000 | 0.3035 | 480000 | 0.3138 | 830000 | 0.3183
900 | 0.2591 | 160000 | 0.3041 | 490000 | 0.3140 | 840000 | 0.3184
1000 | 0.2600 | 170000 | 0.3046 | 500000 | 0.3142 | 850000 | 0.3185
2000 | 0.2660 | 180000 | 0.3051 | 510000 | 0.3143 | 860000 | 0.3186
3000 | 0.2695 | 190000 | 0.3056 | 520000 | 0.3145 | 870000 | 0.3187
4000 | 0.2720 | 200000 | 0.3060 | 530000 | 0.3146 | 880000 | 0.3188
5000 | 0.2740 | 210000 | 0.3064 | 540000 | 0.3148 | 890000 | 0.3199
6000 | 0.2756 | 220000 | 0.3068 | 550000 | 0.3150 | 900000 | 0.3190
7000 | 0.2769 | 230000 | 0.3072 | 560000 | 0.3151 | 910000 | 0.3191
8000 | 0.2781 | 240000 | 0.3076 | 570000 | 0.3153 | 920000 | 0.3192
9000 | 0.2791 | 250000 | 0.3080 | 580000 | 0.3154 | 930000 | 0.3193
10000 | 0.2800 | 260000 | 0.3083 | 590000 | 0.3156 | 940000 | 0.3194
15000 | 0.2835 | 270000 | 0.3086 | 600000 | 0.3157 | 950000 | 0.3195
20000 | 0.2860 | 280000 | 0.3089 | 610000 | 0.3158 | 960000 | 0.3196
25000 | 0.2880 | 290000 | 0.3092 | 620000 | 0.3160 | 970000 | 0.3197
30000 | 0.2895 | 300000 | 0.3095 | 630000 | 0.3161 | 980000 | 0.3198
35000 | 0.2909 | 310000 | 0.3098 | 640000 | 0.3163 | 990000 | 0.3199
40000 | 0.2920 | 320000 | 0.3101 | 650000 | 0.3164 | 1000000 | 0.3200
Coefficients K1 or K2 at intermediate values of V or Vc shall be obtained by linear interpolation.
14 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
APPENDIX III
Measurement and Calculations
(See paragraph 5 of First Schedule)
1. Calculations of Volume :
(a) The length of the upper deck shall be measured in a straight line in the middle plane of the vessel between the points at the forward and after ends of the deck where the underside of the deck or line of continuation thereof in way of breaks or discontinuous of the deck meets the inner side of the shell in vessels constructed of metal or meets the outer surface of the hull in vessels constructed of any other material. such length shall be referred to as the "tonnage length".
(b) The volume under the upper deck to be measured in three parts where the length of the foremost and aftermost parts shall be taken as twenty five per cent. of the tonnage length, TL.
(c) Each of the three parts of the Tonnage Length shall be divided into equal parts as shown in the following table (see Fig. 1):
Tonnage Length TL in metres | Forward 25% TL and after 25% TL | Centre 50% TL
<60 | 4 | 4
>60 ≤ 120 | 6 | 6
> 120 | 8 | 8
(d) The Tonnage Depth of a transverse section shall be the distance from the underside of the Tonnage Deck at centerline to the upper side of the keel or bottom plating in vessels built of metal, to the underside of the keel rabbet in vessels built of wood and to the outside of the hull in vessels built of other material corrected by deducting one-third of the round of beam in the case of vessels where the tonnage deck is of parabolic form or in other cases an equivalent deduction based on equal areas.
(e) The Tonnage Depth as defined in (d) and taken at amidships of the total tonnage length TL shall be divided into, -
(i) 5 equal parts where the depth is 6 meters or less;
(ii) 7 equal parts where the depth exceeds 6 meters but is less than 12 meters and;
(iii) 9 equal parts where the depth exceeds 12 meters.
(f) The bottom part of each transverse section shall be further sub-divided into 4 equal parts (see Fig.2).
15
Fig 1: Measurement of Underdeck Volume
16 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
Fig 2: Measurement of transverse section
17
APPENDIX IV
(See paragraph 7 of First Schedule)
1. The cubic capacity of covered or uncovered spaces upon deck or excluded spaces which have not been included in the computation of gross tonnage when used for carriage of cargoes, shall be determined by multiplying the area in square meters of spaces occupied by cargo, as determined in accordance with the provisions of APPENDIX III by the maximum height of goods in meters. The cubic capacity so arrived shall be divided by 2.83 for determining tonnage of such spaces.
2. The cubic capacity of any space or spaces in the vessels which have been included in the computation of gross tonnage but not in the computation of net tonnage, when used for carriage of cargoes shall be determined by calculating the volume of the whole space in which the cargo is carried. The cubic capacity of the space determined in accordance with the provisions of Appendix III shall be divided by 2.83 for determining tonnage of such spaces.
SECOND SCHEDULE
[See rule 5(1)]
Certificate No.
INTERNATIONAL TONNAGE CERTIFICATE (1969)
Issued under the provisions of the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969, under the authority of the Government of India by
Name of Ship | Distinctive Number or letters | Port of Registry | *Date
*Date on which the keel was laid or the ship was at a similar stage of construction or date on which the ship underwent alterations or modifications of a major character.
MAIN DIMENSION
Length [Para 2(8)] | Breadth [Regulation 2(3)] | Moulded Depth amidship to Upper Deck [Regulation 2(2)]
THE TONNAGES OF THE SHIP ARE
GROSS TONNAGE
NET TONNAGE
This is to certify that the tonnage of this ship have been determined in accordance with the provisions of the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969.
Issued at .......................... on the .......................... day of .......................... 19..........................
The undersigned declares that he is duly authorized by the said Government to issue this Certificate.
Office Stamp with Address
PRINCIPAL OFFICER
MERCANTILE MARINE DEPARTMENT
18 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
SPACES INCLUDED IN TONNAGE
GROSS TONNAGE | NET TONNAGE
Name of Space | Location | Length | Name of Space | Location | Length
NUMBER OF PASSENGERS
No. of Passengers in cabins with not more than 8 berths:
No. of other Passengers :
EXCLUDED SPACES
[Regulation 2(5)]
MOULDED DRAUGHT
[Regulation 2(2)]
*An asterick should be added to those spaces which comprises both enclosed and excluded spaces
Date and place of original measurement
Date and place of last previous measurement.
REMARKS :
Note:- Length, breadth and moulded depth are defined in the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 as follows: Length — Article 2(8); Breadth — Regulation 2(3); Moulded depth – Regulation 2(2). For domestic application see First Schedule, paragraph 1(f) (length), paragraph 1(a) (breadth) and paragraph 1(g) (moulded depth) of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026. Moulded draught used for net tonnage calculations is set out in Regulation 2(2) of ITC-69 and in First Schedule, paragraph 3(2).
19
THIRD SCHEDULE
[See rule 5(2)]
INDIA TONNAGE CERTIFICATE
Issued under the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026 (See rule 5(2))
Name of ship | Off. No. | Port of Registry | Date when keel laid / Alteration completed/ Remeasured*/
*State whether keel laid or alteration completed or remeasured.
Length Rule 1(f) | Breadth Rule 1(a) | Moulded depth amidship Rule 1(g)
GROSS TONNAGE
NET TONNAGE
This is to certify that the tonnages of this ship have been determined in accordance with the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026.
Issued at......................... | Date........
Principal officer
Mercantile Marine Department
20 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
SPACES INCLUDED IN TONNAGE
GROSS TONNAGE | NET TONNAGE
Name of Space | Location | Length | Name of Space | Location | Length
NUMBER OF PASSENGERS
No. of Passengers in cabins with not more than 8 berths:
Other Passengers :
EXCLUDED SPACES
[paragraph 1 (e)of the First Schedule]
MOULDED DRAUGHT [paragraph 3(2) of the First Schedule]
*An asterick should be added to those spaces which comprises both enclosed and excluded spaces
Date and place of original measurement
Date and place of last previous measurement.
REMARKS :
Note:- Length, breadth and moulded depth are defined in the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 as follows: Length — Article 2(8); Breadth — Regulation 2(3); Moulded depth – Regulation 2(2). For domestic application see First Schedule, paragraph 1(f) (length), paragraph 1(a) (breadth) and paragraph 1(g) (moulded depth) of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026. Moulded draught used for net tonnage calculations is set out in Regulation 2(2) of ITC-69 and in First Schedule, paragraph 3(2).
21
FOURTH SCHEDULE
(See rule 10)
(a) | Measurement for issue of International Tonnage Certificate (1969) or India Tonnage Certificate. | Fees (In Rupees)
(i) | First measurement of an Indian vessel or a foreign vessel; Re-measurement, including under deck Tonnage volume : |
A | Vessels less than 24mtrs. in length | Rs.3000/- + Rs 250/- for each 100 tons or part thereof of the gross tonnage
B | Vessels 24mtrs. in length & above | Rs 5000/- + Rs 250/- for each 100 tons or part thereof subject to a maximum of Rs.40000/-
(ii) | Re-measurement not involving under deck tonnage volume. |
A | for measurement of enclosed space on or above the upper deck, other than the spaces specified in clause (B) | Rs.2500/-
B | For measurement of the following space, viz. | Rs.5000/-
| Appendage |
| Cargo compartment |
| Number of passengers and passenger accommodation spaces |
| Water ballast spaces |
| Bunker spaces |
| Store rooms |
(b) | For inspection at the request of owners or by a statutory authority for verification of tonnage and when no re-measurement is required | Rs.2500/-
(c) | For measurement of space occupied by cargo. | Rs.2500/- for each space
(d) | Measurement of Suez Canal and Panama Canal Tonnage: |
(i) | For first measurement of a vessel for Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate. | The fee in (a)(i) plus three-fifths of that fee
(ii) | For a Suez Canal and a Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate if the measurements are made at the same time. | Two and Quarter times the fee in (a)(i)
(iii) | For re-measurement of a vessel following alteration in other than under deck | Fee as in (a)(ii)
22 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(iii) | Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate | 5000 रुपये/-
(iv) | For issue of an additional copy of Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Certificates | 3750 रुपये/-
(v) | For supply of details of Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Calculations to the owner. | 5000 रुपये/-
[F. No. SY-19014/199/2025-MG-Part(3)]
MUKESH MANGAL, Addl. Secy.
MINISTRY OF PORTS, SHIPPING AND WATERWAYS
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 6th July, 2026
G.S.R. 581(E).— In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1), clause (h) of sub-section (2) of section 44, section 116, sub-section (1), and clauses (a) and (b) of sub-section (2) of section 130, of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 (24 of 2025), and in supersession of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 1987, except as respects things done or omitted to be done before such supersession, the Central Government hereby makes the following rules, namely:-
1. Short title, commencement and application. — (1) These rules may be called the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Vessels) Rules, 2026.
(2) These rules shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.
(3) These rules give effect to the 1969 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships.
(4) These rules shall apply to—
(a) every vessel registered or to be registered in India of the following description, namely: -
(i) new vessel;
(ii) existing vessel, which undergo alterations, or modifications, which the administration deems to be of a substantial variation in their existing gross tonnage;
(iii) existing vessel, if the owner thereof so requests in writing; and
(iv) all other existing vessels, on and after the 18th day of July, 1994, subject to the exclusions specified in Article 4 of the convention;
23
(b) vessel other than an Indian vessel covered under sub-rule (a), when such a vessel is in a port or place in the coastal waters of India, subject to Article 4 of the convention.
(5) Nothing in these rules shall apply to any vessel that is excluded under Article 4 of the convention.
(6) For the purposes of these rules-
(a) an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) shall be required for every Indian vessel of 24 meters in length and above engaged on international voyages;
(b) an India Tonnage Certificate shall be issued to—
(i) Indian vessels not engaged on international voyages, or
(ii) Indian vessels below 24 meters in length, the tonnages of which have been determined under these rules.
2. Definitions. — (1) In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires-
(a) "Act" means the Merchant Shipping Act, (2025) (24 of 2025);
(b) "convention" means the 1969 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, as amended;
(c) "existing vessel" means a vessel which is not a new vessel;
(d) "gross tonnage" means the measure of the overall size of the vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(e) "net tonnage" means the measure of the useful capacity of vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(f) "new vessel" means a vessel the keel of which is laid, or which is at a similar stage of construction, on or after the date specified in Article 3 of the convention;
(g) "weathertight" means that in any sea condition water will not penetrate into the vessel;
(h) “length”, “breadth” and “moulded depth” shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(i) “Schedule” means the Schedule annexed to these rules;
(j) “substantial variation” means an increase or decrease of more than one per cent. in the gross tonnage calculated in accordance with the convention, or any other alteration which, in the opinion of the Director-General, materially affects the gross tonnage or net tonnage of the vessel.
24 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(2) Words and expressions used in these rules but not defined herein shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the Act and, where applicable, in the convention and in any codes or instruments made thereunder.
3. Determination of Tonnages. — (1) The gross tonnage and the net tonnage of every vessel to which these rules apply shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the First Schedule.
(2) Such determination shall be carried out by a surveyor.
(3) The Director-General shall remain responsible for every determination of tonnage carried out under this rule.
(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in these rules or in the First Schedule, where the Director-General is satisfied that, in the case of a vessel of a novel type, unconventional design or special purpose, the direct application of the provisions of the First Schedule would be unreasonable, impracticable or would not result in a fair determination of gross tonnage or net tonnage, the Director-General may determine such tonnages by such alternative method or methods as it considers appropriate, having due regard to the principles of the convention.
(5) The Director-General shall, as soon as practicable, communicate to the International Maritime Organization the particulars of any determination made under sub-rule (4), including the reasons for adopting such alternative method and the gross tonnage and net tonnage so determined.
4. Remeasurement of tonnage. — (1) Where the tonnage of a vessel has been, or is deemed to have been, determined under these rules, such tonnage shall remain in force unless—
(a) any alteration is made in the form, construction, arrangement, capacity, or use of spaces of the vessel that would affect the gross tonnage or net tonnage; or
(b) It is discovered that the tonnage was erroneously computed.
(2) In any case referred to in sub-rule (1), the vessel shall be remeasured, and it's tonnage determined afresh in accordance with rule 3 and the First Schedule.
(3) Upon remeasurement, the surveyor shall record the revised tonnage and the Director-General shall issue a revised certificate, as applicable.
25
5. Issue of certificate. (1) An International Tonnage Certificate (1969) shall be issued in the form set out in the Second Schedule to every Indian vessel of 24 meters in length and above engaged on international voyages, the gross tonnage and net tonnage of which have been determined in accordance with these rules.
(2) An India Tonnage Certificate shall be issued in the form of set out in Third Schedule to every Indian vessel not engaged on international voyages, the tonnages of which have been determined in accordance with these rules.
(3) Every certificate under this rule shall be issued by the Director-General, or by a surveyor, or by any person or body authorised by the Director-General under section 9 of the Act to perform such functions.
(4) The Director-General shall remain responsible for all certificates issued under these rules, irrespective of the surveyor that carries out the determination or signs the certificate.
6. Tonnage ascertained in foreign countries. — (1) Where the tonnage of a vessel has been ascertained in accordance with the rules in force in a State that is a contracting government to the convention, or in accordance with the rules which are substantially similar to these rules, the Director-General may accept the tonnage specified in the certificate of registry issued by that State in the same manner, to the same extent and for the same purpose as the tonnage indicated in the certificate of registry issued under these rules.
(2) Notwithstanding sub-rule (1), where the Director-General is of the opinion that the tonnage of a foreign vessel, as ascertained by the rules of the State whose flag the vessel is entitled to fly, differs materially from the tonnage that would result from measurement under these rules, the Director-General may direct that the vessel be remeasured and that its tonnage be determined in accordance with these rules.
7. Cancellation of certificate and validity of certificate. (1) A tonnage certificate issued under these rules shall cease to be valid and shall be cancelled by the Director-General if alterations have taken place in the arrangement, construction, capacity, use of spaces, total number of passengers the vessel is permitted to carry as indicated in the vessel's certificates, assigned load line or permitted draught of the vessel, such as would necessitate an increase in gross tonnage or net tonnage.
(2) A certificate issued to a vessel under these rules shall cease to be valid upon transfer of such a vessel from the Indian flag, except as provided in sub-rule (3).
(3) Upon transfer of an Indian vessel to the flag of another State the Government of which is a contracting government to the convention, the tonnage certificate issued under these rules shall remain in force for a period not exceeding three months, or until that State issues another International Tonnage Certificate (1969) to replace it, whichever is the earlier. The Director-General shall transmit to that State, as soon as possible after the transfer takes place, a copy of the certificate carried by the vessel at the time of transfer and a copy of the relevant tonnage calculations, when so requested.
26 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(4) Upon transfer of a vessel to Indian flag from the flag of another State the government of which is a contracting government to the convention, the tonnage certificate of the vessel issued by that State shall remain in force for a period not exceeding three months, or until the Director-General issues another tonnage certificate to replace it, whichever is earlier. The Director-General may request the previous flag administration, a copy of the certificate carried by the vessel at the time of transfer and a copy of the relevant tonnage calculations.
8. Inspection. — (1) A vessel flying the flag of a State that is a contracting government to the convention, when such vessel is within India, including coastal waters, shall be subject to inspection by officers duly authorised by the Director-General for the purpose of verifying-
(a) that the vessel is provided with a valid International Tonnage Certificate (1969); and
(b) that the main characteristics of the vessel correspond to the data given in the certificate. In no case, the exercise of such inspection shall cause any delay to the vessel.
(2) When such inspection reveal that the main characteristics of the vessel differ from those entered on the tonnage certificate so as to lead to an increase in the gross tonnage or the net tonnage, the government of the State whose flag the vessel is flying shall be informed without delay.
9. Suez Canal and Panama Canal tonnage certificate. —Where a request is received from the owner of a vessel for the measurement of that vessel for the purpose of the issue of a Suez Canal Tonnage Certificate or a Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate, the vessel shall be remeasured by a surveyor authorised by the Director-General, and its tonnage determined in accordance with the rules and requirements issued by the Suez Canal Authority or the Panama Canal Authority, as the case may be.
10. Fees. Fees shall be levied under rules at the rates and for the purposes specified in the Fourth Schedule.
[F. No. SY-19014/199/2025-MG-Part(3)]
MUKESH MANGAL, Addl. Secy.
MINISTRY OF PORTS, SHIPPING AND WATERWAYS
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 6th July, 2026
G.S.R. 581(E).— In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1), clause (h) of sub-section (2) of section 44, section 116, sub-section (1), and clauses (a) and (b) of sub-section (2) of section 130, of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 (24 of 2025), and in supersession of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 1987, except as respects things done or omitted to be done before such supersession, the Central Government hereby makes the following rules, namely:-
1. Short title, commencement and application. — (1) These rules may be called the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Vessels) Rules, 2026.
(2) These rules shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.
(3) These rules give effect to the 1969 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships.
(4) These rules shall apply to—
(a) every vessel registered or to be registered in India of the following description, namely: -
(i) new vessel;
(ii) existing vessel, which undergo alterations, or modifications, which the administration deems to be of a substantial variation in their existing gross tonnage;
(iii) existing vessel, if the owner thereof so requests in writing; and
(iv) all other existing vessels, on and after the 18th day of July, 1994, subject to the exclusions specified in Article 4 of the convention;
27
(b) vessel other than an Indian vessel covered under sub-rule (a), when such a vessel is in a port or place in the coastal waters of India, subject to Article 4 of the convention.
(5) Nothing in these rules shall apply to any vessel that is excluded under Article 4 of the convention.
(6) For the purposes of these rules-
(a) an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) shall be required for every Indian vessel of 24 meters in length and above engaged on international voyages;
(b) an India Tonnage Certificate shall be issued to—
(i) Indian vessels not engaged on international voyages, or
(ii) Indian vessels below 24 meters in length, the tonnages of which have been determined under these rules.
2. Definitions. — (1) In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires-
(a) "Act" means the Merchant Shipping Act, (2025) (24 of 2025);
(b) "convention" means the 1969 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, as amended;
(c) "existing vessel" means a vessel which is not a new vessel;
(d) "gross tonnage" means the measure of the overall size of the vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(e) "net tonnage" means the measure of the useful capacity of vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(f) "new vessel" means a vessel the keel of which is laid, or which is at a similar stage of construction, on or after the date specified in Article 3 of the convention;
(g) "weathertight" means that in any sea condition water will not penetrate into the vessel;
(h) “length”, “breadth” and “moulded depth” shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(i) “Schedule” means the Schedule annexed to these rules;
(j) “substantial variation” means an increase or decrease of more than one per cent. in the gross tonnage calculated in accordance with the convention, or any other alteration which, in the opinion of the Director-General, materially affects the gross tonnage or net tonnage of the vessel.
28 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(2) Words and expressions used in these rules but not defined herein shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the Act and, where applicable, in the convention and in any codes or instruments made thereunder.
3. Determination of Tonnages. — (1) The gross tonnage and the net tonnage of every vessel to which these rules apply shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the First Schedule.
(2) Such determination shall be carried out by a surveyor.
(3) The Director-General shall remain responsible for every determination of tonnage carried out under this rule.
(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in these rules or in the First Schedule, where the Director-General is satisfied that, in the case of a vessel of a novel type, unconventional design or special purpose, the direct application of the provisions of the First Schedule would be unreasonable, impracticable or would not result in a fair determination of gross tonnage or net tonnage, the Director-General may determine such tonnages by such alternative method or methods as it considers appropriate, having due regard to the principles of the convention.
(5) The Director-General shall, as soon as practicable, communicate to the International Maritime Organization the particulars of any determination made under sub-rule (4), including the reasons for adopting such alternative method and the gross tonnage and net tonnage so determined.
4. Remeasurement of tonnage. — (1) Where the tonnage of a vessel has been, or is deemed to have been, determined under these rules, such tonnage shall remain in force unless—
(a) any alteration is made in the form, construction, arrangement, capacity, or use of spaces of the vessel that would affect the gross tonnage or net tonnage; or
(b) It is discovered that the tonnage was erroneously computed.
(2) In any case referred to in sub-rule (1), the vessel shall be remeasured, and it's tonnage determined afresh in accordance with rule 3 and the First Schedule.
(3) Upon remeasurement, the surveyor shall record the revised tonnage and the Director-General shall issue a revised certificate, as applicable.
29
5. Issue of certificate. (1) An International Tonnage Certificate (1969) shall be issued in the form set out in the Second Schedule to every Indian vessel of 24 meters in length and above engaged on international voyages, the gross tonnage and net tonnage of which have been determined in accordance with these rules.
(2) An India Tonnage Certificate shall be issued in the form of set out in Third Schedule to every Indian vessel not engaged on international voyages, the tonnages of which have been determined in accordance with these rules.
(3) Every certificate under this rule shall be issued by the Director-General, or by a surveyor, or by any person or body authorised by the Director-General under section 9 of the Act to perform such functions.
(4) The Director-General shall remain responsible for all certificates issued under these rules, irrespective of the surveyor that carries out the determination or signs the certificate.
6. Tonnage ascertained in foreign countries. — (1) Where the tonnage of a vessel has been ascertained in accordance with the rules in force in a State that is a contracting government to the convention, or in accordance with the rules which are substantially similar to these rules, the Director-General may accept the tonnage specified in the certificate of registry issued by that State in the same manner, to the same extent and for the same purpose as the tonnage indicated in the certificate of registry issued under these rules.
(2) Notwithstanding sub-rule (1), where the Director-General is of the opinion that the tonnage of a foreign vessel, as ascertained by the rules of the State whose flag the vessel is entitled to fly, differs materially from the tonnage that would result from measurement under these rules, the Director-General may direct that the vessel be remeasured and that its tonnage be determined in accordance with these rules.
7. Cancellation of certificate and validity of certificate. (1) A tonnage certificate issued under these rules shall cease to be valid and shall be cancelled by the Director-General if alterations have taken place in the arrangement, construction, capacity, use of spaces, total number of passengers the vessel is permitted to carry as indicated in the vessel's certificates, assigned load line or permitted draught of the vessel, such as would necessitate an increase in gross tonnage or net tonnage.
(2) A certificate issued to a vessel under these rules shall cease to be valid upon transfer of such a vessel from the Indian flag, except as provided in sub-rule (3).
(3) Upon transfer of an Indian vessel to the flag of another State the Government of which is a contracting government to the convention, the tonnage certificate issued under these rules shall remain in force for a period not exceeding three months, or until that State issues another International Tonnage Certificate (1969) to replace it, whichever is the earlier. The Director-General shall transmit to that State, as soon as possible after the transfer takes place, a copy of the certificate carried by the vessel at the time of transfer and a copy of the relevant tonnage calculations, when so requested.
30 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(4) Upon transfer of a vessel to Indian flag from the flag of another State the government of which is a contracting government to the convention, the tonnage certificate of the vessel issued by that State shall remain in force for a period not exceeding three months, or until the Director-General issues another tonnage certificate to replace it, whichever is earlier. The Director-General may request the previous flag administration, a copy of the certificate carried by the vessel at the time of transfer and a copy of the relevant tonnage calculations.
8. Inspection. — (1) A vessel flying the flag of a State that is a contracting government to the convention, when such vessel is within India, including coastal waters, shall be subject to inspection by officers duly authorised by the Director-General for the purpose of verifying-
(a) that the vessel is provided with a valid International Tonnage Certificate (1969); and
(b) that the main characteristics of the vessel correspond to the data given in the certificate. In no case, the exercise of such inspection shall cause any delay to the vessel.
(2) When such inspection reveal that the main characteristics of the vessel differ from those entered on the tonnage certificate so as to lead to an increase in the gross tonnage or the net tonnage, the government of the State whose flag the vessel is flying shall be informed without delay.
9. Suez Canal and Panama Canal tonnage certificate. —Where a request is received from the owner of a vessel for the measurement of that vessel for the purpose of the issue of a Suez Canal Tonnage Certificate or a Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate, the vessel shall be remeasured by a surveyor authorised by the Director-General, and its tonnage determined in accordance with the rules and requirements issued by the Suez Canal Authority or the Panama Canal Authority, as the case may be.
10. Fees. Fees shall be levied under rules at the rates and for the purposes specified in the Fourth Schedule.
[F. No. SY-19014/199/2025-MG-Part(3)]
MUKESH MANGAL, Addl. Secy.
MINISTRY OF PORTS, SHIPPING AND WATERWAYS
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 6th July, 2026
G.S.R. 581(E).— In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1), clause (h) of sub-section (2) of section 44, section 116, sub-section (1), and clauses (a) and (b) of sub-section (2) of section 130, of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 (24 of 2025), and in supersession of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 1987, except as respects things done or omitted to be done before such supersession, the Central Government hereby makes the following rules, namely:-
1. Short title, commencement and application. — (1) These rules may be called the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Vessels) Rules, 2026.
(2) These rules shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.
(3) These rules give effect to the 1969 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships.
(4) These rules shall apply to—
(a) every vessel registered or to be registered in India of the following description, namely: -
(i) new vessel;
(ii) existing vessel, which undergo alterations, or modifications, which the administration deems to be of a substantial variation in their existing gross tonnage;
(iii) existing vessel, if the owner thereof so requests in writing; and
(iv) all other existing vessels, on and after the 18th day of July, 1994, subject to the exclusions specified in Article 4 of the convention;
31
(b) vessel other than an Indian vessel covered under sub-rule (a), when such a vessel is in a port or place in the coastal waters of India, subject to Article 4 of the convention.
(5) Nothing in these rules shall apply to any vessel that is excluded under Article 4 of the convention.
(6) For the purposes of these rules-
(a) an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) shall be required for every Indian vessel of 24 meters in length and above engaged on international voyages;
(b) an India Tonnage Certificate shall be issued to—
(i) Indian vessels not engaged on international voyages, or
(ii) Indian vessels below 24 meters in length, the tonnages of which have been determined under these rules.
2. Definitions. — (1) In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires-
(a) "Act" means the Merchant Shipping Act, (2025) (24 of 2025);
(b) "convention" means the 1969 International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, as amended;
(c) "existing vessel" means a vessel which is not a new vessel;
(d) "gross tonnage" means the measure of the overall size of the vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(e) "net tonnage" means the measure of the useful capacity of vessel determined in accordance with First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(f) "new vessel" means a vessel the keel of which is laid, or which is at a similar stage of construction, on or after the date specified in Article 3 of the convention;
(g) "weathertight" means that in any sea condition water will not penetrate into the vessel;
(h) “length”, “breadth” and “moulded depth” shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the First Schedule annexed to these rules;
(i) “Schedule” means the Schedule annexed to these rules;
(j) “substantial variation” means an increase or decrease of more than one per cent. in the gross tonnage calculated in accordance with the convention, or any other alteration which, in the opinion of the Director-General, materially affects the gross tonnage or net tonnage of the vessel.
32 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(2) Words and expressions used in these rules but not defined herein shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the Act and, where applicable, in the convention and in any codes or instruments made thereunder.
3. Determination of Tonnages. — (1) The gross tonnage and the net tonnage of every vessel to which these rules apply shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of the First Schedule.
(2) Such determination shall be carried out by a surveyor.
(3) The Director-General shall remain responsible for every determination of tonnage carried out under this rule.
(4) Notwithstanding anything contained in these rules or in the First Schedule, where the Director-General is satisfied that, in the case of a vessel of a novel type, unconventional design or special purpose, the direct application of the provisions of the First Schedule would be unreasonable, impracticable or would not result in a fair determination of gross tonnage or net tonnage, the Director-General may determine such tonnages by such alternative method or methods as it considers appropriate, having due regard to the principles of the convention.
(5) The Director-General shall, as soon as practicable, communicate to the International Maritime Organization the particulars of any determination made under sub-rule (4), including the reasons for adopting such alternative method and the gross tonnage and net tonnage so determined.
4. Remeasurement of tonnage. — (1) Where the tonnage of a vessel has been, or is deemed to have been, determined under these rules, such tonnage shall remain in force unless—
(a) any alteration is made in the form, construction, arrangement, capacity, or use of spaces of the vessel that would affect the gross tonnage or net tonnage; or
(b) It is discovered that the tonnage was erroneously computed.
(2) In any case referred to in sub-rule (1), the vessel shall be remeasured, and it's tonnage determined afresh in accordance with rule 3 and the First Schedule.
(3) Upon remeasurement, the surveyor shall record the revised tonnage and the Director-General shall issue a revised certificate, as applicable.
33
APPENDIX I
(See paragraph 1(e) of First Schedule)
Figures referred to in paragraph 1(e)
In the following figures: O = excluded space
C = enclosed space
I = space to be considered as an enclosed space
Hatched in parts to be included as enclosed spaces.
B = breadth of the deck in way of the opening.
In ships with rounded gunwales the breadth is measured as indicated in Figure 11.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
34 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
35
Fig. 10
SHIPS WITH ROUNDED GUNWALES
Fig. 11
36 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
APPENDIX II
(See paragraphs 2 and 3 of the First Schedule)
COEFFICIENTS K1 AND K2 REFERRED TO IN PARAGRAPHS 2 and 3
V OR VC = Volume in cubic meters
V or Vc | K1 or K2 | V or Vc | K1 or K2 | V or Vc | K1 or K2 | V or Vc | K1 or K2
10 | 0.2200 | 45000 | 0.2931 | 330000 | 0.3104 | 670000 | 0.3165
20 | 0.2260 | 50000 | 0.2940 | 340000 | 0.3106 | 680000 | 0.3166
30 | 0.2295 | 55000 | 0.2948 | 350000 | 0.3109 | 690000 | 0.3168
40 | 0.2320 | 60000 | 0.2956 | 360000 | 0.3111 | 700000 | 0.316
50 | 0.2340 | 65000 | 0.2963 | 370000 | 0.3114 | 710000 | 0.3179
60 | 0.2356 | 70000 | 0.2969 | 380000 | 0.3116 | 720000 | 0.3170
70 | 0.2369 | 75000 | 0.2975 | 380000 | 0.3118 | 730000 | 0.3171
80 | 0.2381 | 80000 | 0.2981 | 390000 | 0.3120 | 740000 | 0.3173
90 | 0.2391 | 85000 | 0.2986 | 400000 | 0.3123 | 750000 | 0.3174
100 | 0.2400 | 90000 | 0.2991 | 410000 | 0.3125 | 760000 | 0.3175
200 | 0.2460 | 95000 | 0.2996 | 420000 | 0.3127 | 770000 | 0.3176
300 | 0.2495 | 100000 | 0.3000 | 430000 | 0.3129 | 780000 | 0.3177
400 | 0.2520 | 110000 | 0.3008 | 440000 | 0.3131 | 790000 | 0.3188
500 | 0.2540 | 120000 | 0.3016 | 450000 | 0.3133 | 800000 | 0.3180
600 | 0.2556 | 130000 | 0.3023 | 460000 | 0.3134 | 810000 | 0.3181
700 | 0.2569 | 140000 | 0.3029 | 470000 | 0.3136 | 820000 | 0.3182
800 | 0.2581 | 150000 | 0.3035 | 480000 | 0.3138 | 830000 | 0.3183
900 | 0.2591 | 160000 | 0.3041 | 490000 | 0.3140 | 840000 | 0.3184
1000 | 0.2600 | 170000 | 0.3046 | 500000 | 0.3142 | 850000 | 0.3185
2000 | 0.2660 | 180000 | 0.3051 | 510000 | 0.3143 | 860000 | 0.3186
3000 | 0.2695 | 190000 | 0.3056 | 520000 | 0.3145 | 870000 | 0.3187
4000 | 0.2720 | 200000 | 0.3060 | 530000 | 0.3146 | 880000 | 0.3188
5000 | 0.2740 | 210000 | 0.3064 | 540000 | 0.3148 | 890000 | 0.3199
6000 | 0.2756 | 220000 | 0.3068 | 550000 | 0.3150 | 900000 | 0.3190
7000 | 0.2769 | 230000 | 0.3072 | 560000 | 0.3151 | 910000 | 0.3191
8000 | 0.2781 | 240000 | 0.3076 | 570000 | 0.3153 | 920000 | 0.3192
9000 | 0.2791 | 250000 | 0.3080 | 580000 | 0.3154 | 930000 | 0.3193
10000 | 0.2800 | 260000 | 0.3083 | 590000 | 0.3156 | 940000 | 0.3194
15000 | 0.2835 | 270000 | 0.3086 | 600000 | 0.3157 | 950000 | 0.3195
20000 | 0.2860 | 280000 | 0.3089 | 610000 | 0.3158 | 960000 | 0.3196
25000 | 0.2880 | 290000 | 0.3092 | 620000 | 0.3160 | 970000 | 0.3197
30000 | 0.2895 | 300000 | 0.3095 | 630000 | 0.3161 | 980000 | 0.3198
35000 | 0.2909 | 310000 | 0.3098 | 640000 | 0.3163 | 990000 | 0.3199
40000 | 0.2920 | 320000 | 0.3101 | 650000 | 0.3164 | 1000000 | 0.3200
Coefficients K1 or K2 at intermediate values of V or Vc shall be obtained by linear interpolation.
37
APPENDIX III
Measurement and Calculations
(See paragraph 5 of First Schedule)
1. Calculations of Volume :
(a) The length of the upper deck shall be measured in a straight line in the middle plane of the vessel between the points at the forward and after ends of the deck where the underside of the deck or line of continuation thereof in way of breaks or discontinuous of the deck meets the inner side of the shell in vessels constructed of metal or meets the outer surface of the hull in vessels constructed of any other material. such length shall be referred to as the "tonnage length".
(b) The volume under the upper deck to be measured in three parts where the length of the foremost and aftermost parts shall be taken as twenty five per cent. of the tonnage length, TL.
(c) Each of the three parts of the Tonnage Length shall be divided into equal parts as shown in the following table (see Fig. 1):
Tonnage Length TL in metres | Forward 25% TL and after 25% TL | Centre 50% TL
<60 | 4 | 4
>60 ≤ 120 | 6 | 6
> 120 | 8 | 8
(d) The Tonnage Depth of a transverse section shall be the distance from the underside of the Tonnage Deck at centerline to the upper side of the keel or bottom plating in vessels built of metal, to the underside of the keel rabbet in vessels built of wood and to the outside of the hull in vessels built of other material corrected by deducting one-third of the round of beam in the case of vessels where the tonnage deck is of parabolic form or in other cases an equivalent deduction based on equal areas.
(e) The Tonnage Depth as defined in (d) and taken at amidships of the total tonnage length TL shall be divided into, -
(i) 5 equal parts where the depth is 6 meters or less;
(ii) 7 equal parts where the depth exceeds 6 meters but is less than 12 meters and;
(iii) 9 equal parts where the depth exceeds 12 meters.
(f) The bottom part of each transverse section shall be further sub-divided into 4 equal parts (see Fig.2).
38 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(g) The volume of each separate cargo space in a hold or superstructure bounded by deck, shell, longitudinal and/or transverse bulkheads, as the case may be, shall be measured separately and generally in accordance with the method of measurement of the underdeck.
(h) The space below the top of floor line of cargo vessels with single bottoms to be included in the measurement of the cargo space irrespective of whether there is any ceiling fitted on top of the open floors.
(i) Superstructures such as Poop, Bridge or Forecastle shall be measured generally in accordance with the method of measurement of the underdeck.
2. Appendages such as a bulbous bow, unusual shaped stem, stern and shaft bossing shall be measured separately as an appendage by any practical method acceptable to the Director-General and the volume added to the underdeck volume.
3. Spaces open to the sea and located below the load water line such as bow thruster nits, rudder trunks and stabilizer fin openings etc. and spaces open to the sea and weather above the load waterline such as hawse and chain pipes shall be measured and excluded from the gross tonnage and also the net tonnage where applicable.
4. In computation of areas and volumes, Simpson's first rule shall be used except for areas and volumes of geometrically defined spaces which shall be calculated with application of standard geometric formula.
39
Fig 1: Measurement of Underdeck Volume
40 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
Fig 2: Measurement of transverse section
41
APPENDIX IV
(See paragraph 7 of First Schedule)
1. The cubic capacity of covered or uncovered spaces upon deck or excluded spaces which have not been included in the computation of gross tonnage when used for carriage of cargoes, shall be determined by multiplying the area in square meters of spaces occupied by cargo, as determined in accordance with the provisions of APPENDIX III by the maximum height of goods in meters. The cubic capacity so arrived shall be divided by 2.83 for determining tonnage of such spaces.
2. The cubic capacity of any space or spaces in the vessels which have been included in the computation of gross tonnage but not in the computation of net tonnage, when used for carriage of cargoes shall be determined by calculating the volume of the whole space in which the cargo is carried. The cubic capacity of the space determined in accordance with the provisions of Appendix III shall be divided by 2.83 for determining tonnage of such spaces.
SECOND SCHEDULE
[See rule 5(1)]
Certificate No.
INTERNATIONAL TONNAGE CERTIFICATE (1969)
Issued under the provisions of the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969, under the authority of the Government of India by
Name of Ship | Distinctive Number or letters | Port of Registry | *Date
*Date on which the keel was laid or the ship was at a similar stage of construction or date on which the ship underwent alterations or modifications of a major character.
MAIN DIMENSION
Length [Article 2(8)] | Breadth [Regulation 2(3)] | Moulded Depth amidship to Upper Deck [Regulation 2(2)]
THE TONNAGES OF THE SHIP ARE
GROSS TONNAGE
NET TONNAGE
This is to certify that the tonnage of this ship have been determined in accordance with the provisions of the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969.
Issued at .......................... on the .......................... day of .......................... 19..........................
The undersigned declares that he is duly authorized by the said Government to issue this Certificate.
Office Stamp with Address
PRINCIPAL OFFICER
MERCANTILE MARINE DEPARTMENT
42 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
SPACES INCLUDED IN TONNAGE
GROSS TONNAGE | NET TONNAGE
Name of Space | Location | Length | Name of Space | Location | Length
NUMBER OF PASSENGERS
No. of Passengers in cabins with not more than 8 berths:
No. of other Passengers :
EXCLUDED SPACES
[Regulation 2(5)]
MOULDED DRAUGHT
[Regulation 2(2)]
*An asterick should be added to those spaces which comprises both enclosed and excluded spaces
Date and place of original measurement
Date and place of last previous measurement.
REMARKS :
Note:- Length, breadth and moulded depth are defined in the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 as follows: Length — Article 2(8); Breadth — Regulation 2(3); Moulded depth – Regulation 2(2). For domestic application see First Schedule, paragraph 1(f) (length), paragraph 1(a) (breadth) and paragraph 1(g) (moulded depth) of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026. Moulded draught used for net tonnage calculations is set out in Regulation 2(2) of ITC-69 and in First Schedule, paragraph 3(2).
43
THIRD SCHEDULE
[See rule 5(2)]
INDIA TONNAGE CERTIFICATE
Issued under the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026 (See rule 5(2))
Name of ship | Off. No. | Port of Registry | Date when keel laid / Alteration completed/ Remeasured*/
*State whether keel laid or alteration completed or remeasured.
Length Rule 1(f) | Breadth Rule 1(a) | Moulded depth amidship Rule 1(g)
GROSS TONNAGE
NET TONNAGE
This is to certify that the tonnages of this ship have been determined in accordance with the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026.
Issued at......................... | Date........
Principal officer
Mercantile Marine Department
44 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
SPACES INCLUDED IN TONNAGE
GROSS TONNAGE | NET TONNAGE
Name of Space | Location | Length | Name of Space | Location | Length
NUMBER OF PASSENGERS
No. of Passengers in cabins with not more than 8 berths:
No. of other Passengers :
EXCLUDED SPACES
[paragraph 1 (e)of the First Schedule]
MOULDED DRAUGHT
[paragraph 3(2) of the First Schedule]
*An asterick should be added to those spaces which comprises both enclosed and excluded spaces
Date and place of original measurement
Date and place of last previous measurement.
REMARKS :
Note:- Length, breadth and moulded depth are defined in the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 as follows: Length — Article 2(8); Breadth — Regulation 2(3); Moulded depth – Regulation 2(2). For domestic application see First Schedule, paragraph 1(f) (length), paragraph 1(a) (breadth) and paragraph 1(g) (moulded depth) of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 2026. Moulded draught used for net tonnage calculations is set out in Regulation 2(2) of ITC-69 and in First Schedule, paragraph 3(2).
45
FOURTH SCHEDULE
(See rule 10)
(a) | Measurement for issue of International Tonnage Certificate (1969) or India Tonnage Certificate. | Fees (In Rupees)
(i) | First measurement of an Indian vessel or a foreign vessel; Re-measurement, including under deck Tonnage volume : |
A | Vessels less than 24mtrs. in length | Rs.3000/- + Rs 250/- for each 100 tons or part thereof of the gross tonnage
B | Vessels 24mtrs. in length & above | Rs 5000/- + Rs 250/- for each 100 tons or part thereof subject to a maximum of Rs.40000/-
(ii) | Re-measurement not involving under deck tonnage volume. |
A | for measurement of enclosed space on or above the upper deck, other than the spaces specified in clause (B) | Rs.2500/-
B | For measurement of the following space, viz. | Rs.5000/-
| Appendage |
| Cargo compartment |
| Number of passengers and passenger accommodation spaces |
| Water ballast spaces |
| Bunker spaces |
| Store rooms |
(b) | For inspection at the request of owners or by a statutory authority for verification of tonnage and when no re-measurement is required | Rs.2500/-
(c) | For measurement of space occupied by cargo. | Rs.2500/- for each space
(d) | Measurement of Suez Canal and Panama Canal Tonnage: |
(i) | For first measurement of a vessel for Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate. | The fee in (a)(i) plus three-fifths of that fee
(ii) | For a Suez Canal and a Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate if the measurements are made at the same time. | Two and Quarter times the fee in (a)(i)
(iii) | For re-measurement of a vessel following alteration in other than under deck | Fee as in (a)(ii)
46 | THE GAZETTE OF INDIA: EXTRAORDINARY | [PART II-SEC. 3(i)]
(e) | (i) | For issue of International Tonnage Certificate (1969) or India Tonnage Certificate | Rs.2500/-
| (ii) | For issue of duplicate of International Tonnage Certificate (1969) or India Tonnage Certificate. | Rs.2300/-
| (iii) | For issue of Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Certificate | Rs.5000/-
| (iv) | For issue of an additional copy of Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Certificates | Rs.3750/-
| (v) | For supply of details of Suez Canal or Panama Canal Tonnage Calculations to the owner. | Rs.5000/-
[F. No. SY-19014/199/2025-MG-Part(3)]
MUKESH MANGAL, Addl. Secy.
Uploaded by Dte. of Printing at Government of India Press, Ring Road, Mayapuri, New Delhi-110064
and Published by the Controller of Publications, Delhi-110054. SARVESH KUMAR SRIVASTAVA
SARVESH KUMAR SRIVASTAVA
Login to read full text