New Delhi, Nov. 20 -- The Union Home Ministry on Thursday abolished decades-old requirements of sign-on, sign-off and Shore Leave Passes (SLP) for all Indian vessels exclusively operating in Indian waters.

In a letter addressed to Joint Secretary (Ports), the MHA said that it has been decided to do away with the coastal sign-on/sign-off and the SLP procedures for the Crew/Supernumerary of Indian Flag coastal run vessels, dredgers/barges and research vessels operating within port limits.

"The undersigned is directed to refer to the above-mentioned subject and to say that it has been brought to the notice of this Ministry that Indian Seafarers are facing difficulties with the existing immigration procedures of sign-on/sign-off & SLP durin...