About Merchant Navy Course
The Merchant Navy offers an exciting and rewarding career at sea, with opportunities to travel the world while working aboard commercial vessels like cargo ships, tankers, and cruise liners. Aspiring Deck Cadets typically begin their journey through courses such as the B.Sc. Nautical Science or Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS), both of which require clearing the IMU-CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test). Success in this highly competitive exam demands focused preparation and expert guidance. That’s where Rantra Academy, Dehradun stands out as the premier coaching institute for Merchant Navy aspirants. With its team of seasoned defence and maritime professionals, a proven track record of results, and personalized mentorship, Rantra Academy ensures that students are not only exam-ready but also mentally and physically prepared for life at sea.
Subjects in IMU-CET (for DNS/Deck Cadet)
- English – Grammar, vocabulary, comprehension.
- Mathematics – 10+2 level (CBSE or State Board).
- Physics – 10+2 level.
- Chemistry – Basics only (less weightage).
- General Aptitude – Reasoning, quantitative aptitude, data interpretation.
- General Knowledge – Current affairs, basic science, geography.
Preparation Timeline
- 3-4 months of focused study is ideal.
- Practice daily MCQs and mock tests.
- Focus more on Maths, Physics, and English.
Key Tips
- Revise NCERT Books (Class 11 & 12) for Physics & Maths.
- Improve English grammar and vocabulary.
- Solve previous year question papers.
- Practice reasoning-type questions.
- Stay updated with current affairs (especially shipping and defense news).
- Join a reliable coaching or online test series for mock exams.
Physical and Medical Requirements (Post-Exam)
- Must pass IMU-CET and also clear a DG Shipping-approved medical test.
- Eyesight: 6/6 in each eye; No color blindness.
- Physical fitness as per DG Shipping norms.
After Selection
- For Deck Cadet (DNS or BSc Nautical Science), you will be admitted to:
- Government/Private Marine institutes affiliated to IMU (like TMI, AMET, Anglo Eastern, etc.)
- Sponsorship from shipping companies may be required before or after IMU-CET depending on the path.
Learn from Real Merchant Navy Veterans
Meet Our Team
Captain Amit Tomar
Captain Amit Tomar is a dynamic, multi-faceted professional with over 25 years of distinguished experience in the global Oil & Gas and Shipping industries. A performance-driven leader, he began his career in 1998 with the Shipping Corporation of India and has since served with several top-tier maritime organizations.
Renowned for his exceptional technical expertise in marine systems, production operations, auxiliaries, and FPSO platforms, Captain Tomar holds over 50 professional certifications, making him a powerhouse of knowledge and operational excellence.
What truly sets him apart is his visionary leadership and commitment to nurturing talent. His sharp focus on skill-building, discipline, and technical mastery has helped transform hundreds of raw cadets into accomplished officers serving across the globe.
Coming from a family of accomplished educators, Captain Tomar is deeply passionate about empowering young minds. Through RANTRA, he is dedicated to training and mentoring India’s youth — helping them achieve their professional dreams and become world-class leaders in their fields.
Commander Yograj Singh
Commander Yograj Singh is a retired Executive Officer, an accomplished author, and one of the country’s most respected behavioural trainers. With over 18 years of dedicated experience, he has mentored more than 300 aspirants to achieve their dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces as commissioned officers.
A firm believer in holistic development, his guiding philosophy is:
“Prepare for life, and you will be prepared for defence — not the other way around.”
Commander Yograj doesn’t believe in shortcuts. His mentorship is for those who are truly committed to self-discovery, leadership excellence, and the relentless pursuit of discipline and purpose. Under his guidance, students develop the mindset, values, and confidence required of true leaders.
Academically, he holds postgraduate degrees in both Psychology and Management, and is a certified trainer in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) — making his training a rare blend of mental strength, emotional intelligence, and strategic clarity.
Mr. Anoop Rawat
Mr. Anoop Rawat brings a rare blend of naval discipline, maritime expertise, and academic leadership to his role as Head of Academics – Merchant Navy Wing at Ranbhoomi Defence Training Academy.
A retired Petty Officer of the Indian Navy and a former Radio Communication Officer in the Merchant Navy, Mr. Rawat has served the nation and the global maritime industry with distinction. With deep technical knowledge and frontline experience, he understands both the challenges and the opportunities of life at sea.
He also serves as a Senior Faculty member at Shivalik Maritime Academy (DG Shipping Approved), where he is known for his command over maritime operations, safety protocols, and navigational communication.
At Rantra, Mr. Rawat leads the Merchant Navy training with a focus on discipline, operational readiness, and international standards, ensuring that every cadet is well-equipped for a successful career in the maritime world.