Question 1

Can a colour blind person join the merchant navy?

Accepted Answer

No. Colour blindness of any degree is a disqualification under DG Shipping rules for pre-sea entry in India, for both deck and engine streams. This is tested by Ishihara plates during the medical examination.

Question 2

What is the eye power requirement for merchant navy?

Accepted Answer

For deck stream: 6/6 in better eye and 6/9 in worse eye, unaided. For engine stream: 6/9 in better eye and 6/18 in worse eye, with or without correction.

Question 3

Can I join merchant navy with flat foot?

Accepted Answer

Flat foot (pes planus) is a disqualifying condition under DG Shipping medical standards.

Question 4

Is LASIK allowed for merchant navy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. LASIK is conditionally permitted. A minimum gap of 6-12 months must have passed between surgery and the medical examination, with no complications and ophthalmologist clearance.

Question 5

What is the minimum height for merchant navy in India?

Accepted Answer

DG Shipping sets a baseline minimum of 150cm. However, most institutes including Tolani Maritime require 157cm minimum for male candidates.

Am I Medically Eligible for Merchant Navy?