**Executive Summary**
This Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) Circular announces the "Training of Trainers (ToT) for Sagar Mein Yog" program for promoting holistic wellness among Indian seafarers. It is mandatory for all approved Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs) to train their trainers and equip them with the syllabus. The ToT program's aim is to orient qualified Yoga instructors to ensure the effective delivery of the syllabus. The effective date of this document is 06.11.2025.
**Key Points / Main Content**
* **Sagar Mein Yog Initiative:**
* Aims to enhance seafarers' physical, mental, and emotional well-being through yoga.
* Harmonizes yogic wisdom with the demands of seafarer life.
* Structured around the belief that Yoga supports seafarers throughout their maritime journey.
* Comprehensive syllabus tailored for Pre-Sea Training, Post-Sea Phase, and At-Sea Practice.
* **Training of Trainers (ToT) Program:**
* MTIs must train their trainers in the "Sagar Mein Yog" syllabus.
* The program is 18 hours over 3 days.
* The ToT curriculum covers:
* Self-Care through Yoga, 8 Steps to a Better You
* Relationships and Personal Development, Yoga and Wellness
* Preventive Health Care, Stress Management, Emotional Management
* Special Yoga Protocols for Self-Help, Evaluation
* Focuses on suitable teaching methodologies for the maritime context.
* Emphasizes adapting delivery for Pre-sea, Post-sea, and At-sea courses.
* Trains in structuring lessons, developing content, and conducting learner-focused evaluations.
* **Trainer Qualifications:**
* Postgraduate degree in Yoga with 55% marks and 5 years of experience, *or*
* Graduate degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Yoga with 55% marks and 5 years of experience.
* Level 3 Certificate from the Yoga Certification Board, Ministry of AYUSH.
* Proficiency in Hindi and English.
* Working knowledge of computer operations.
* **Trainee Qualifications:**
* A graduate degree with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognized university or institution.
* Additionally, individuals who have completed a Registered Yoga Teacher Training Program of 200 or 300 hours from a Yoga institution accredited by the Ministry of Ayush are eligible.
* **Implementation:**
* Approved maritime training institutes should implement the "Sagar mein Yog" programme.
* MTIs must ensure instructors meet qualifications and complete ToT.
* MTIs must prepare detailed lesson plans aligned with the outline.
**Impact Analysis**
**Maritime Training Institutes (MTIs)**
* **Impact:** MTIs must incorporate the "Sagar Mein Yog" program into their curriculum.
* **Action Required:** Train their trainers and ensure they meet the specified qualifications and successfully complete the ToT program.
**Yoga Instructors/Trainers**
* **Impact:** Yoga instructors will receive specialized training for teaching yoga in a maritime context.
* **Action Required:** Meet the specified qualifications and complete the ToT program to become certified to teach the "Sagar Mein Yog" syllabus.
**Indian Seafarers**
* **Impact:** Access to standardized yoga and mindfulness practices to improve their holistic wellness.
* **Action Required:** Participate in the "Sagar Mein Yog" programs offered by MTIs.
Key Entities Referenced
Sagar Mein Yog: An initiative by the Directorate General of Shipping aimed at promoting holistic wellness among Indian seafarers through the integration of Yoga practices.
Directorate General of Shipping (DGS): The primary regulator and issuing authority for the circular concerning the 'Sagar Mein Yog' program.
Training of Trainers (ToT): A program designed to train qualified Yoga instructors to effectively deliver the 'Sagar Mein Yog' syllabi in the maritime context.
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways: The ministry under which the Directorate General of Shipping operates.
Maritime Training Institute (MTI): Approved maritime training institutes interested in implementing the 'Sagar Mein Yog' programme should ensure that their instructors meet the specified qualifications and successfully complete the required Training of Teachers (TOT).
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DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF SHIPPING, MUMBAI
DGS Circular No.48 of 2025
F.\o. 23-\lISC/3-1/2024-CRE\jt - DGS (C.No. 28779) Date:06.11.2025
Subiect: Trainins of Trainers (ToT) for "Sasar ]lein \ oc" Programmc for Promotinc Ilolistic
rrl ellness among Indian Seafarers - reg.
The Directorate General ofShipping (DGS) is pleased to announce the TrainiDg ofTrainers
guidelines (as annexed) underthe "Sagar Mein Yog" initiative, aimed at promoting holistic wellness
among Indian seafarers. This initiative is pan ofour ongoing effons ro enhance the physical, mental
and emotional well-being ofseafarers through the integration ofYoga practices onboard ships.
2.
Whereas, the Directorate has conceptualized and launched a pioneering initiative ritled
"Sagar Mein Yog", aimed at fostering comprehensive physical. mental and emotional well-being
through the integration ofyoga and mindfulness practices into the maritime ecosystem.
3.
Whereas, Yoga, widely acknowledged as a philosophy of life. embodies principles that
empower individuals to cultivate resilience, inner peace and enhanced focus qualities that are
imperative for seafarers who routinely operate in high-strcss, isolated and challenging environments.
The "Sagar Mein Yog" programme has been envisioned to harmonize yogic wisdom \ rith the distinct
life conditions and professional demands encountered by seafarers.
4.
Whereas, this programme is structured around the foundational beliefthat Yoga serves as a
kansformatiye support system for seafarers across different phases oftheir maritime joumey. To this
end. a comprehensive and stage-specific syllabus has been meticulously curated for the following
categories:
a)
Pre-Sea Training
b)
Post-Sea Phase
c)
At-Sea Practice
5. Whereas, it shall be mandatory for all approved MTls to train thcir trainers and specially
equip them with the requisite pedagogical skills, content mastery and contextual understanding
essential for the effective dissemination ofthe "Sagar Mein Yog" syllabus.
6.
This is issued with the approval ofthe Director General ofShipping
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Capt Nitin Mukesh
Dy. Nautical Advisor cum Senior DDG (Tech)
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GUIDELINES FoR TRAINING OF TIIAINERS }'OR SAGAR NII'IN YOG INITIATIVE
l. Aims
The syllabi for the "Sagar Mein Yog" programme incorporate key elements of Ashtanga Yoga, Kriya Yoga,
and the Bhavas of Buddhi. These principles are applied to real-life situations through Yogic and other
altemative techniques designed to naturally help individuals achieve balance. The programme aims to offer a
Yogic perspective that sets the foundation for deeper leaming while preventing the misinterpretation or misuse
oftechniques. This foundational theme is considered essential and may be delivered in multiple layers, aligned
with the readiness of the learners.
2.
Objectives
a) Self-Care through Yoga:
This section covers various Yoga techniques (Kriyas, Asanas, Pranayama, and Bhavana), along with their
foundational underslanding, step-by-step execution, benefits, and the appropriate mindset required for practice.
b) 8 Steps to a Better You:
This theme explores the Eightfold Path of Yoga, addressing all dimensions of human existence and guiding
individuals towards harmonious living with oneself, others, and the environment.
c) Relationships and Personal Development:
Focusing on relationships with oneself and others, this theme emphasises enhancing both interpersonal and
intrapersonal dynamics while maintaining high energy levels. It encourages a balanced approach to
communication and well-being across financial, physical, mental, personal, professional, and spiritual domains.
d) Yoga and Wellness:
This section introduces Yoga Therapy aimed at achieving balance in behaviour, thinking, diet. and relaxation
referred to as Achar, Vichar, Ahara, and Vihara in Yogic philosophy.
e) Preventive Health Care / Understanding Your Body:
This module highlights the importance of understanding the body's structure and functions (ADatomy and
Physiology) to maintain health. A healthy body is foundational to Yogic thought and behaviour.
f) Stress Managemcnt through Yoga:
Yoga viervs stress as a matter ofperception and proposes that a shift in perception can be the solution.
Concepts such as Klesha, Klishta-Aklishta Vrittis, and Kriya Yoga (Tapas, Swadhyaya, Ishrvarapranidhana)
are employed to facilitate this transformation based on the leamer's readiness.
g) Emotional Management:
Acknowledging emotions as a powerful driving force, this theme presents Yogic methods for rcgulating and
channeling emotioDs effectively. Key concepts include Ahimsa, Satya, Brahmacharya, lshwarapranidhana, a
sense of duty, concentration, letting go, confidence, and willpower.
h) Special Yoga Protocols for Self-Help:
This section provides practical, ready-to-use Yoga protocols tailored for seafarers to manage challenging
physical or mental situations at sea or home. It also helps leamers understand the structure of these protocols,
empowering them to design their own for other scenarios.
i) Evaluation / Performance of karning:
This component assesses the transformation experienced by leamers throughout the course. Participants are
encouraged to express their groMh through words, actions, presentations, or creative performances and to
reflect on their alignment with the Yogic way of life.3.
Trainers' Qualifications
A postgraduate degree in Yoga with a minimum of55%o marks from a recognized Universityflnstitution, along
with at least 5 years of experience as a Yoga teacher in a UGC-recognized University/College/lnstitute, or a
reputed school / organization.
OR
A graduate degree from a recognized University/lnstitution, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Yoga ofat
least one year duration, with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognized University/lnstitution, and a minimum
of 5 years of experience as a Yoga teacher in a UGC-recognized University/College/lnstitute, or a reputed
school/organization.
o
For institutions not governed under the UGC Act, candidates must submit a certificate of equivalence for
the degree/diploma from the appropriate authority.
o
Candidates submifting experience certificates from their own institutions must also provide the registration
certificate ofthe institution, along with valid proof demonstrating their teaching tenure during the claimed
period.
4.
Additional Requirements:
o
Level 3 Certificate from the Yoga Certification Board, Ministry of AYUSH, Govemment of India
o
Proficiency in both Hindi and English.
.
Working knowledge of computer operations.
5,
Trainees Qualifications:
A graduate degree in any discipline with a minimum of 55o% marks from a recognized university or institution.
Additionally, individuals who have completed a Registered Yoga Teacher Training Program of200 or 300 hours
from a Yoga institution accredited by the Ministry ofAyush are eligible.
o
For institutions not governed under the UGC Act, candidates must submit a certificate of equivalence for
the degree/diploma from the appropriate authority.
o
Candidates submitling experience certificates frorn their own institutions must also provide the registration
certificate of the institution, along with valid proof demonstrating them teaching or instructional tenure
during the claimed period.
6.
Desirable:
o
Proficiency in both Hindi and English.
.
Working knowledge ofcomputer operations.
o
Knowledge of Vedas, Upanishads, Indian Philosophy, History and Culture of India, Sanskit, and Hindi
language.
o
Knowledge ofany additional foreign language.
. Experience in sports training, physical education, or wellness instruction with exposure to fitness
management or athlete well-being programs rvill be considered an added advantage.
7.
Course durations
I 8 hours (3 days)
9. Training of Trainers (TOT) programme
a) It is essential to orient qualified Yoga instructors to ensure the effective delivery ofthe "Sagar Mein Yog"
syllabi. The ToT programme includes a concise review of key concepts and techniques, with a primary
focus on teaching methodologies suitable for the maritime context.
b) Special emphasis should be placed on adapting the delivery based on the nature ofthe course Pre-sea, Post-
sea, or At-sea. Trainers should leam how to structure lessons effectively, including how to begin and
conclude sessions, develop content, and conduct leamer-focused evaluations all while upholding the true
spirit of Yoga.
c)
Prerequisites for attending the ToT programme include:.
Thoroughly reviewing all relevant syllabi.
.
Gaining clarity on the topics and techniques, along with preparing thoughtful questions.
.
Preparing a list ofpoints ofagreement or disagreement with the content, along with reasoning.
o
Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for practicing basic Yoga techniques.
o
Demonstrating active participation, taking notes, asking questions and freely expressing opinions during
sessions.
10.
Implementation
Approved maritime training institutes interested in implementing the "Sagar mein Yog" programme should
ensure that their instructors meet the specified qualifications and successfully complete the required Training
ofTeachers (TOT).
ll.
Teaching Aids (A)
) Al The Instructor Manual
)
A2 Audio-visual equipment
)
A3 Any new (or contemporary) technology relevant to instruction
)
,A4 Yoga Mats
12.
Books / Publications @)
)
Bl The Bhagavad Gita - Eknath Easwaran
)
82 Light on Yoga - B.K.S. Iyengm
F
83 The Complete Book of Vinyasa Yoga - Sriva, sa Rantaswami & Tirumalai Krishnamacharya
)
84 The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga's Ethical Practice
)
85 Restore and Rebalance: Yoga for Deep Relaxation
)
86 Roots ofYoga
)
87 Yoga: Immortality and Freedom
)
B8 The Heart ofYoga: Developing a Personal Practice
!
89 Yoga Anatomy
)
B l0 The Yoga Tradition
F
B I I The Wisdom of Yoga
)
B l2 Yoga Sequencing
13. Course outline / Timetablc:
Days / Hours
Sr No Timings Subjcct area Lecture Activit\
(Hn) (H rs) (l I rs)
Day I Seafarers' profession: Nautical, Engineering and Catering, Officers ,1.0
I
I 000 - 1500 and Ratings
Lifestyle4
Stresses
Work hours
2 1500 - 1700 Sagar Mein Yog concept 2.0
3 Day 2 Preparing body, mind & soul for yoga 3.0
1000 - r300
4 1400 - 1700 SMY Svllabus 3.0
5 Day 3 Stress Management through Yoga 0.5 0.5
1000 - I 100 How to teach differently in Pre and Post Courses and for At sea Protocol
6 I 100 - 1200 Emotional Management 0.5 0.5
Significance as the bases and Heart of Yoga for Beginners at all ages
'l
1200 - 1300 Special Yoga Protocols for Self Help 0.5 0.5
Understanding the sequence and time assessment
{i 1400 - 1700 Evaluation / Performance of Learning 0.5 0.5II
I What to evaluate and how
Total 6.0 6.0
14.
frsson plan:
The Maritime Training Institute (MTI) intending to conduct the course shall prepare detailed lesson plans in
alignment with the proposed course outline and the available course materials, books, and publication.
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