Marine Engineers:ruling the waves of trade

Marine Engineering and Research Institutes in Kolkata and Mumbai offer educational programmes that help mould engineer officers for the merchant navy.

We had seen the structure of the central university for marine training, and the main features of Training Ship Chanakya that trains navigation officers. There are other significant units offering educational programmes that help develop engineer officers in merchant navy.

MERI, Kolkata

Marine Engineering and Research Institute, Kolkata, is the pioneer in marine engineering training in India. It was established in 1947 to meet the growing need of marine engineers in the country. MERI was originally known as the Directorate of Marine Engineering Training (DMET), under the Ministry of Shipping. It was renamed Marine Engineering and Research Institute in 1994.

Marine Engineering and Research Institute (MERI), P-19, Taratalla Road, Kolkata 700 088. Ph : 033 -2401 4673; e-mail: director@merical.ac.in

After a chequered history stretching over six decades, MERI Kolkata is regarded as a prominent marine institute at the global level. It has fine infrastructure for delivering quality training of marine engineers. The institute fulfils the requirements to conduct STCW-95 convention of IMO courses. It trains candidates for the four-year B.Tech. degree course in marine engineering of the Jadavpur University.

The curriculum covers areas such as mechanics of machines/ materials, advanced mathematics, advanced computer science, electronics, fluid mechanics, and other engineering/ technology subjects. In addition to this, there are subjects like administrative services, management, and entrepreneurship. Training is given in physical exercise, parade, housekeeping, swimming and outdoor games, in order to ensure that every trainee acquires the mental and physical attributes essential for development as a marine engineer.

Currently there are 246 seats in the B.Tech. degree programme. The course is residential. Normally, all the graduates secure jobs through campus recruitment.

The selection of candidates for the degree programme is made through the joint entrance examination held by the IITs. The academic qualification for entry is the same as that for the B.Sc. (nautical sciences) degree in TS Chanakya indicated earlier.

On successful completion of the programme, the candidates will be able to carry out safely the watch keeping duties of an engineer officer on board a ship. He will be fully conversant with the maintenance and operation of machinery and equipment fitted on board.

For the initial appointment as a junior engineer officer as well as for promotions, he will have to acquire appropriate Certificates of Competency through the examinations conducted by the Ministry of Surface Transport. The following examinations are being held periodically at different centres:

Extra First Class Engineer

Marine Engineer Officer Class I

Marine Engineer Officer Class II

Marine Engineer Officer Class III

Marine Engineer Officer Class IV

National Maritime Academy, Chennai

This unit of Indian Maritime University also conducts the four-year B.Tech. in marine engineering programme. Selection of candidates is through the IIT JEE along with that of MERI Kolkata. Contact: National Maritime Academy, East Coast Road, Uthandi, Chennai 600 119; Ph: 044 2453 0343; e-mail: imu.chennaicampus@yahoo.com

MERI, Mumbai

Tracing the history of MERI brings out interesting developments. The Mumbai unit of MERI has played a significant role in maritime education in the country. In view of the great demand of qualified merchant navy professionals, MERI started a one-year training programme to adopt graduates in mechanical engineering / naval architecture to become marine engineers. The course duration of one year was converted into six months in college plus six months on board. The next step was remarkable — the introduction of the three-year polyvalent B.Sc. (maritime science) degree course at MERI Mumbai in 2003, with a new philosophy. The selection of candidates to this programme is also through the IIT JEE.

The polyvalent officer has the combined knowledge of both the fields — nautical science and marine engineering. MERI Mumbai runs such a dual certificate polyvalent course.

In other words, the skills developed in MERI Kolkata and TS Chanakya programs are combined in the polyvalent package.

The content has the right mix of nautical and engineering branches. Indeed, there are common areas. Further, appropriate practical training develops all the required skills.

The course has the approval of Directorate General of Shipping and the affiliation of the University of Mumbai. On completion of the B.Sc. (maritime science) degree course, the cadet should attend 18 months approved on-board structured training program (12 months nautical plus six months engineering).

After completion of 18 months of structured onboard training, cadets may appear for the 2nd Mate (Foreign Going) Certificate of Competency written and oral examination of the nautical stream, or Class IV Part 'B' Certificate of Competency written and oral examination of the engineering stream. The cadet has the option to appear in both the examinations and obtain Certificates of Competency of both the disciplines.

Since the cadets possess the B.Sc. (maritime science) degree, they are eligible for exemption from Part "A" examination of Marine Engineer Officer Class IV Certificate of Competency, as well as the foundation course for Second Mate (Foreign Going) Certificate of Competency. They are also exempted from the preparatory course requirement for Second Mate (Foreign Going) and Marine Engineer Officer Class IV Part 'B'. Contact: Marine Engineering & Research Institute (MERI) , Hay Bunder Road, Mumbai - 400 033; e-mail: meribom@vsnl.com

LBS

The Lal Bahadur Shastri College of Advanced Maritime Studies and Research, Mumbai, established in 1948, is one of the largest marine training institutions in the world, with over 1200 students, offering nearly fifty post-sea courses that meet IMO standards.

It offers a comprehensive range of training programmes for merchant navy officers, in tune with the regulations of DG Shipping. The high quality education develops sound professionalism that has helped numerous Indian officers to excel in their career in foreign ships as well.

It is fully equipped to meet all the needs of professional training up to the highest level in nautical science and marine engineering for merchant navy officers. The “extra master's course” started in 1984, and the “extra chief engineer's course” started in 1994 are outstanding features of the college, even by global standards.

It has seven state of the art simulators:

LNG-LPG full mission simulator

Liquid cargo handling simulator

Engine room simulator

Ship manoeuvring simulator

Radar simulator

Radar, ARPA and navigation simulator

GMDSS

Contact: Lal Bahadur Shastri College of Advanced Maritime Studies and Research, Hay Bunder Road, Mumbai 400033; e-mail: mariner@bom2.vsnl.net.in

CAREER OPTIONS IN MODELING

CAREER OPTIONS IN MODELING




Modeling : Introduction


 Modeling today has become one of the most sought after career options for youngsters . This is one of the most thrilling as well as lucrative profession, it attracts males and females equally, though there was a time when females dominated the field. With the expansion of consumerism and media there has been a fabulous boost in the ad industry. This along with upsurge in fashion industry have made modeling an attractive career option.
It has generated a large and continuing demand for fresh faces and personalities to launch and promote a variety of branded products or show a garment to its best advantage.

Modeling is undoubtedly a glamorous field which offers tremendous opportunities to travel and meet various classes of people. Moreover once established it is a highly paid job. Even with all these plus points it involves lot of hard work, dedication and perseverance to be successful in this field. It is a highly competitive and short- lived career. Further, stress factor is high and the hours are erratic. The job also requires a lot of stamina and patience. 

 It is a profession where educational qualifications become insignificant and physical attributes and personal qualities assume importance.

Modeling are of various types. The modeling can be broadly classified into ramp modelling, television modeling and print modeling.

Modelling : Eligibility & Course Areas

 Eligibility: There is no specific qualification or age limit to enter into this field. First step for making an entry is to prepare a portfolio. This consists of a series of photographs taken by a professional photographer. The portfolio can then be shown to an advertising agency, a model co-ordinating agency providing suitable models according to requirements, or a fashion designer. Another way to enter into this career is to apply for the contests sponsored by magazines, cloth manufactures, cosmetic companies etc and participating in beauty pageants.

There are no set standards of training in this area, and models are usually expected to learn on the job. A beginning for training in this field has been made by ex-models who have set up training schools, however it is restricted mainly to Delhi and Mumbai.

Training programs includes instructions on beauty care, make-up, hair styling, diet and exercise, how to walk and carry yourself elegantly and so on. These training programs include guidance on how to make a contract and other technicalities. Guidance on making a portfolio also forms a part of such training programs.
 Personal attributes:

Main attributes required to become a model is a good and healthy complexion, and lustrous hair. Models should be tall, fashion industry criteria for best models are 5'7" to 6' or 6' plus. For a man, height should be 6' or 6' plus and he should be muscular. Being photogenic is the single most important quality to have for a model. Apart from this good knowledge of acting, camera friendly attitude and a great amount of self confidence will reward success in this profession. They must also be open to criticism

Modelling : Job Prospects & Career Options

 Job prospects

There is no dearth of jobs in modelling these days. Job prospects are available to models :

 •  In product advertising
 •  Featuring in music videos
 •  Doing live fashion shows
 •  Showroom displays or garment fairs
 •  Opening a school for models
 •  Setting up a model co-ordinating agency
 •  Acting in television programmes or films

Career options

Modelling can be mainly classified into Television modelling, Print modelling/Still modelling, Ramp modelling/live modelling, Show room modelling, Advertising modelling etc.

Television modelling: This involves modelling before the Movie camera, to be used for Television commercials, cinema, video, internet etc. Modelling for video or films often includes some acting or dance and is mostly conducted on location. To make a successful television model you need a flair for acting.

Print modelling: Models generally pose for still photographs, to be utilized in the press advertisements, brochures, magazines, catalogues, calendars etc. Models for print media have to work along with ad agencies and photographers.

Show room modelling : As per the name it take place in the showrooms. Models work generally for the exporters, garment manufacturers and the big garment retailers to display the latest trends of fashion to the buyers.

 Ramp or catwalk modelling / Live modelling: Requires models to display the garments and accessories in front of a live audience. This can be at an exhibition or a fashion show, or at a showroom or point of purchase. Ramp modelling, thus, requires long hours of practice. Performing in a live show before an audience can be very stressful. It requires tremendous confidence and poise. Ramp models should have a good posture, walking style and body language.

Advertising modelling: This is the one where both print & electronic media has equal importance. It is in order to promote or popularise a product. Advertising models appear in press advertisements, on posters, in TV commercials and advertising films. Advertising modelling is open to models of all age groups. Basic acting skills and a photogenic face are must.


Modelling : Remuneration

        

The amount of money paid to models depends upon how prestigious the show is and who the organisers are. Female models typically earn more than male models for similar work. An established model who is consistently on the popularity charts earns anything between Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 per fashion Show. Low budget shows pay models somewhere around Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. Print ads pay according to the number of photographs used. Magazine spreads and billboard advertisements also pay well - reputed magazines paying around Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per photograph.

Fashion Designing

Fashion Designing : Introduction

India which has always been a centre for the textile and garment trade is also growing into a centre of innovation in garment and accessory design. Fashion technology has a wide scope for choosing a career. Now the fashion industry has become so specialized that it encompasses a vast field of studies in design, concept management, design production management, quality control, planning, 




fabric design, printing, fashion accessory design, fashion merchandising, textile science, colour mixing, marketing and so on. 


The primary areas of work in the fashion industry are market research, designing and manufacturing of garments and textiles.  
Fashion design is the most important area of work in fashion industry. Designing involves creating original designs after studying the changing trends of the market i.e market research. It has various fields of specialisation like garments, footwear, jewellery and even luggage. It is a challenging field as it requires the coordination of various jobs, in small concerns it is usually a one man show but in big organisations the jobs are specialised and allotted to different people. 






Manufacturing involves purchasing textiles and fabrics required for the design and making the garment according to the master pattern. Manufacturing process requires employment of a large number of trained personnel






 Eligibility & Course Areas


Minimum eligibility for the Undergraduate course in this field is 10+2 with 50% marks and for Post Graduate courses graduation. In the prominent institutes, admission is strictly on merit- through written test, situation test, group discussion and interview. These courses are aimed at understanding concepts related to costume, jewellery, leather goods and many other similar products where fashion matters. 


The courses include Graduate, Post graduate, Certificate and Diploma in the following areas: 


 • Accessory designing and fashion designing 






 • Garment Manufacturing Technology
 • Apparel marketing and Merchandising
 • Leather and Garment Design and Technology
 • Knitwear Design and Technology
 • Textile Design and Development
 • Fashion Journalism and Presentation
While 10+2 is sufficient for Accessory designing and Fashion Designing, Graduates are preferred for other courses.


The training also includes internship in an organization which gives the students industry functions. Training is usually imparted keeping in mind the demands of the international market. Most training institutes have the  latest technologies including laboratories, workshops, design and research centers, libraries, computers and information about the latest development in the industry.
Prominent institutes in Fashion Technology are National institute of Fashion technology (NIFT), National Institute of Design (NID), International Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi (IIFT); IEC School of Art and Fashion, New Delhi; Indian Institute of Art and Fashion Technology (IIAFT), Mumbai; Pearl Academy of fashion, New Delhi; J.D Institute of fashion Technology, New Delhi.