India has introduced a sweeping new maritime regulation requiring closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems to be installed on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more, in a move aimed at improving onboard safety and emergency response capabilities.
The mandate, issued by India’s Directorate General of Shipping, applies to both newbuild and existing Indian-flagged vessels, and is also recommended for foreign-flagged ships that call at Indian ports. Compliance must be achieved by 12 February 2028, or at the vessel’s next classification renewal survey, whichever comes later.
The decision follows a series of high-profile incidents involving man-overboard cases, crew disappearances and collisions, which prompted the Indian government to address gaps in emergency response and situational awareness. The lack of real-time visual monitoring has been cited as a key factor contributing to delayed search and rescue (SAR) efforts.
Detailed technical requirements have been set out, including camera coverage of key shipboard areas such as the main deck, forecastle, mooring zones, stern, bridge, and superstructure. Specifications also cover night vision capability, camera resolution, positioning, and data retention. Operators are encouraged to integrate AI-enabled software into their CCTV systems to enhance detection, tracking and alerting functions.
Technology company Zelim welcomed the move, describing India’s regulation as a benchmark for global maritime safety. The firm said voluntary measures were no longer sufficient and called for consistent standards across all International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states. Zelim pointed to the aviation sector’s long-standing use of advanced situational awareness technologies, noting that maritime has lagged behind in adopting similar tools.
Sam Mayall, CEO of Zelim, called the decision “a landmark moment” and praised India for setting a new bar in maritime safety. Stewart Gregory, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasised that the regulation goes beyond basic surveillance by incorporating intelligent monitoring technology into a ship’s overall safety system. He described the directive as a significant step beyond current IMO requirements.
Zelim also confirmed it is already working with Indian authorities to support implementation of the new rules. The company’s AI-based monitoring systems are designed to assist with accident prevention, support SAR operations, and provide forensic insight for post-incident investigations. They also offer potential deterrence against onboard criminal activity.
For fire and safety professionals, India’s mandate is a compelling example of how national regulations can drive the adoption of life-saving technologies. The decision demonstrates the value of integrated monitoring systems not only in real-time incident detection, but also in strengthening emergency preparedness and compliance frameworks.
The move may also influence other high-risk sectors by highlighting the benefits of mandatory, technology-driven standards. With India leading the way, the maritime industry may soon see broader international momentum toward consistent, AI-enhanced situational awareness at sea.
