Overview
Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) was founded in 1975 in Mumbai with backing from the Indian government and shipping industry. IRS classes around 2,500 vessels totalling 14 million GT, with strength in Indian coastal, supply, and offshore tonnage as well as an expanding deep-sea bulk-carrier book. IRS became an IACS associate in 2004 and a full member in 2010, making it one of the newer IACS societies.
Key facts
- Founded 1975, Mumbai
- ~2,500 vessels / ~14 M GT classed
- IACS full member since 2010
- Strong in Indian coastal and offshore
- Recognised organisation for Indian flag
Why it matters to seafarers
If you sail under the Indian flag — coastal, OSV, or deep-sea — IRS is the most likely classer. IRS deficiency-coding maps to the Indian Ocean MoU PSC regime. The MUMBAICLASS portal (IRClass Portfolio) hosts class status and survey records.