Exploring the Merchant Navy: Its Purpose and Why It's Called Merchant Navy

By Ajay Kumar Tripathi, a Chief Engineer Officer with 22 years of experience in the Merchant Navy, currently serving on an Ultra Large Container Carrier.

What is Merchant Navy?

The Merchant Navy is a vital component of global trade that refers to the fleet of merchant vessels, including dry bulk carriers, container vessels, and oil tankers. These vessels transport goods such as vehicles, televisions, food, and other commodities across oceans to various cities and countries. Approximately 95% of the world's goods are transported by sea, highlighting the extensive role played by the Merchant Navy.

Merchant Navy vs. Navies of Other Nations

It's common for many people to mistake the Merchant Navy for the Indian Navy or any other country's navy. However, the two are distinctly different in their core functions and purposes.

The primary role of a merchant navy vessel, as I am currently sailing on an Ultra Large Container Carrier, is to transport goods in large quantities across international and national waters. The term 'Merchant' in Merchant Navy is derived from the fact that these vessels are engaged in trade and commerce, moving goods from one country to another. On the other hand, the Indian Navy is part of the Indian Armed Forces, dedicated to protecting the nation's maritime borders and ensuring national security through naval operations and strategies.

In essence, the Merchant Navy operates as a commercial enterprise under the management of a Merchant Maritime Company. It focuses on the commercial aspect of maritime transportation, while the Indian Navy ensures the safety and security of the nation's waters.

As a Chief Engineer Officer with extensive experience, I would like to clarify that the functions of a merchant navy and a naval service are as follows:

Merchant Navy

Transport goods in large quantities from one country to another or from one city to engaged in commercial and trade activities.Operated commercially under a Merchant Maritime Company.

Indian Navy

Protect the nation's maritime boundaries from external threats.A component of the Indian Armed on national security and maritime defense.

Conclusion and Future Queries

Hopefully, this explanation has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of what the Merchant Navy is and the differences between it and nation’s navies. If you have any further questions or need more information about the merchant navy, please feel free to reach out to me on Quora.

By C.E. Ajay Kumar Tripathi, a Chief Engineer Officer with 22 years of experience in the Merchant Navy.