DGMA Circular 21 of 2026: The New MMD Examination System — What It Means for You
If you are appearing for a CoC examination — 2nd Mate, Chief Mate, Master, MEO Class 4/3/2/1 — there is a significant change you must know about.
DGMA Circular 21 of 2026 launched a new online examination module for all Merchant Navy officer certifications. The old system is being retired. This is not a small update — it is a complete platform migration.
Here is what changed and what you need to do.
What Is DGMA Circular 21 of 2026?
DGS Circular 21 of 2026 formally announced the launch of the new online Examination Module for the certification of Merchant Navy officers under India’s e-Samudra digital governance system.
Specifically, the circular covers:
- Launch of the new examination application module
- Data migration from the old system to the new module
- Instructions for candidates, MMDs, and examiners on using the new system
What Changed
Old System
- Applications were submitted through older DGS online portals (dgshipping.gov.in — now defunct)
- Results were published separately at individual MMD websites or notice boards
- Data was fragmented across systems
New System (Post Circular 21/2026)
- All exam applications through the new e-Samudra Examination Module at dgma.gov.in
- Integrated with your INDOS profile
- Results published directly to your e-Samudra dashboard
- Historical examination records being migrated from old system
- Single interface for application, tracking, and result
Who Is Affected
- All candidates currently preparing for CoC examinations (written + oral)
- Officers who have recently appeared and are awaiting results
- Officers seeking CoC revalidation
- MMD staff processing applications
Action Items for Candidates
If you have a pending examination:
- Login to your e-Samudra profile at dgma.gov.in and verify your personal details are correct
- Check if your historical exam records are visible in the new system
- If records are missing or incorrect — contact your jurisdictional MMD immediately (do not wait until exam date)
If you are about to apply for a CoC exam:
- Use only the new e-Samudra module at dgma.gov.in for your application
- Old application portals are no longer valid
- Your application will be linked to your INDOS profile automatically
If you appeared recently and are waiting for results:
- Results will be published via the new module
- Check dgma.gov.in → Examinations → Results
- If your name is missing: contact your MMD with your roll number and application acknowledgement
Data Migration: Understanding the Transition Period
Data migration from old systems is complex. During the transition:
- Some historical records may temporarily not appear in the new system
- This does not mean your records are lost — it means they are still being migrated
- DGMA has confirmed all historical data will be migrated
If you encounter discrepancies, the correct step is to contact your MMD’s Principal Officer with your historical documents (admit cards, result notifications, CoC copies) for manual verification and system update.
Which MMDs Are Covered?
All five Mercantile Marine Departments in India operate under this new system:
- MMD Mumbai (Principal MMD)
- MMD Chennai
- MMD Kolkata
- MMD Kochi
- MMD Kandla
What Remains the Same
- Examination syllabus (unchanged)
- Written + oral examination pattern (unchanged)
- Examination fees (verify current amounts at dgma.gov.in)
- CoC content and validity (unchanged)
- Physical examination locations at MMDs (unchanged)
The change is in the technology platform — not the examination itself.
Quick Reference
| Action | Where to Do It |
|---|---|
| Apply for exam | dgma.gov.in → e-Samudra → Examination Module |
| Check result | dgma.gov.in → Examinations → Results |
| Verify CoC | dgma.gov.in/seafarer-certificate-verification-system |
| Report data issue | Contact jurisdictional MMD + DGS Helpline 9004048406 |
Questions? Share your name, rank, and query:
— Sailor Success Team | helpme@sailorsuccess.online