National Shipping Board

What NSB Logo Represents

Our logo reflects the vision, values, and maritime strength of India. Every element symbolizes a deeper meaning aligned with national progress, sustainability, and global leadership in the maritime sector.

Outer Blue Circle – Represents the vast oceans, global connectivity, and trust in maritime operations.
Ship Wheel – Symbolizes direction, control, and the Board’s role in guiding maritime policy.
Tricolor Theme – Reflects India’s national values of courage, peace, and sustainable growth.
Ashoka Chakra – Signifies law, progress, motion, energy, collaboration across the shipping ecosystem and continuous movement in maritime development.
Ocean Waves – Depict the sea, trade routes, and India’s deep maritime heritage.
Port Infrastructure – Highlights ports, shipyards, and logistics driving economic growth.
Motto in Sanskrit – Wisdom is sea, Progress in nation

About National Shipping Board

The National Shipping Board (NSB) is a statutory advisory body constituted under the provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 to advise the Government of India on matters relating to the shipping sector. The Board plays a vital role in supporting the formulation of policies aimed at the growth, regulation, and development of the Indian maritime industry.

The Board serves as an important institutional mechanism for consultation between the Government and key stakeholders in the maritime domain. It deliberates on a wide range of issues including merchant shipping, maritime safety, port-led development, shipping infrastructure, and the overall competitiveness of the Indian shipping industry. The recommendations of the Board assist the Government in informed decision-making and policy formulation.

The composition of the National Shipping Board reflects a broad-based representation of stakeholders. It includes Members of Parliament, representatives from Central Government Ministries and Departments, shipowners, seafarers, port authorities, and other maritime professionals. This diverse composition ensures that multiple perspectives are taken into account while addressing sectoral challenges and opportunities.

The Board is reconstituted periodically to maintain updated representation and to align with the evolving needs of the maritime sector. Through its advisory role, the National Shipping Board contributes significantly to strengthening India’s position in global shipping and promoting sustainable growth in the maritime domain.

Vision, Mission & Values

Our Vision

To position India as a global maritime leader through sustainable growth, innovation, inclusivity, and international collaboration— by strengthening and modernizing Indian tonnage and maritime assets, advancing world-class maritime infrastructure, and aligning with India’s Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal 2047, with seafarers and the maritime workforce at the core of progress.

Our Mission

To shape forward-looking, evidence-based maritime policies that promote safe, secure, green, and technology-driven shipping; foster fair and equitable labour and welfare ecosystems; strengthen and modernize Indian tonnage through enhanced safety, training, and regulatory alignment; and uphold India’s maritime heritage while fulfilling the National Shipping Board’s statutory advisory mandate within the India’s broader maritime governance framework.

CORE VALUES – ANCHORS

Guiding India’s Maritime Future with Stability & Vision

Anchored in values, steering with vision — NSB

A – Accountability - Transparency, integrity, responsibility
N – National Interest - Economic & strategic priorities
C – Collaboration - Govt, industry, global partners
H – Holistic Vision - Integrated maritime development
O – Operational Excellence - Efficiency & global standards
R – Responsiveness - Timely, agile advice
S – Sustainability - Green & future-ready shipping

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

1. Advise the Government of India on shipping, maritime infrastructure, and sectoral reforms.
2. Support green and digital shipping through research, consultation, and policy guidance.
3. Strengthen domestic capabilities in shipbuilding, repair, and recycling aligned with global standards.
4. Foster coordination among ports, shipping companies, training institutions, and stakeholders for integrated growth.
5. Ensure the welfare, safety, and social protection of Indian seafarers in accordance with the MLC, 2006.
6. Promote decent working conditions, mental health, and family well-being for seafarers.
7. Reinforce tripartite consultation among Government, Employers, and Workers in maritime governance.
8. Develop future-ready skills in areas such as alternative fuels, autonomous ships, and climate change.
9. Promote gender diversity, youth participation, and inclusion in the maritime workforce.
10. Track global maritime trends and recommend measures to strengthen India’s leadership in the Blue Economy.
11. Build public awareness of India’s maritime heritage, achievements, and sustainable future.