9 Key differences between Indian Navy and Merchant Navy: Which pays better?
TOI Education
Aug 20, 2024
Indian Navy vs Merchant Navy
Understanding the differences between the Indian Navy and the Merchant Navy is crucial for anyone considering a career at sea. While both involve maritime operations, their objectives, structures, and career prospects are vastly different. Let’s explore the key distinctions.
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Ownership and Mission
The Indian Navy primarily consists of government-owned ships dedicated to national security and safeguarding India’s territorial waters. In contrast, the Merchant Navy includes ships owned by both government and private entities, focusing on commercial activities like transporting goods and passengers globally.
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Operational Territory
The Indian Navy operates within India’s territorial waters, with missions that occasionally extend beyond for specific operations. The Merchant Navy, however, routinely operates beyond national boundaries, engaging in international trade across the globe.
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Job Profile and Role
The Indian Navy serves as a branch of the Armed Forces, tasked with protecting the nation’s maritime interests. The Merchant Navy, on the other hand, is dedicated to commercial maritime activities, governed by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). It focuses on global shipping and transport.
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Salary Structure
Salaries in the Merchant Navy can range widely, from INR 0.3 lakhs to INR 20.8 lakhs per annum, governed by international labor standards. In comparison, the Indian Navy’s pay is regulated by the Government of India, with additional benefits based on rank and service.
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Benefits and Perks
Merchant Navy personnel receive benefits set by international bodies like the ILO and ITF. In the Indian Navy, benefits include family accommodation, subsidized shopping, travel allowances, and free medical treatment. Additionally, Indian Navy personnel receive pensions post-retirement, a significant advantage.
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Training and Education
Merchant Navy cadets undergo an 18-month training program, while Indian Navy officers are trained at prestigious institutions like the National Defence Academy and Naval Academy, earning B.Tech degrees. The Indian Navy emphasizes technical education and leadership training.
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Eligibility Criteria and Age Limit
Joining the Merchant Navy typically requires a 10+2 qualification with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, with an age range of 17 to 25 years. The Indian Navy also requires a 10+2 education, primarily in science subjects, with additional qualifications needed for higher ranks.
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Work Schedule and Career Growth
In the Merchant Navy, a standard workday lasts eight to nine hours, with promotions based on sea time and exams. The Indian Navy, however, has a more varied schedule, ranging from eight to twelve hours, with promotions granted through time scale, selection, and competitive exams.
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