The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of the ‘Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool’ (BMI pool) with a ₹12,980 crore sovereign guarantee. This initiative aims to provide affordable maritime insurance for Indian vessels, reducing reliance on foreign insurers and addressing risks from global volatility. It will cover various maritime risks, enhancing self-reliance.
Indian missions are actively engaging with the diaspora, including community organizations and businesses, to maintain vital connections abroad. Air travel between the region and India remains operational, with over 1 million passengers traveling since February. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has evacuated 2,373 nationals, ensuring their safety amid ongoing challenges.
Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Seaport is gaining prominence, with nearly 100 vessels awaiting berths due to Gulf tensions impacting UAE routes. Located 10 nautical miles from major shipping lanes, the port’s deepwater capacity allows it to accommodate ultra-large vessels, reducing transit times and costs. Future expansions aim to enhance throughput significantly.
The last rites for Dixit Solanki, a Mumbai seafarer killed in a Gulf of Oman attack, were held after a long wait for his remains. His tragic death highlights the growing dangers faced by Indian sailors in conflict zones, leaving his family devastated and raising urgent calls for improved maritime safety measures.
The International Maritime Organization’s Legal Committee has approved groundbreaking guidelines to combat maritime fraud and flag misuse. Aimed at enhancing transparency in ship registration, these guidelines address a significant regulatory gap, ensuring accurate ownership records and improved oversight, crucial for safety and environmental protection in international shipping.
Families of three detained Filipino seafarers are urging the Philippine government to seek a fair trial in Algeria. During a press conference, Marie, one of the wives, appealed to President Marcos Jr. for diplomatic intervention, asserting their innocence against wrongful criminalization. The seafarers face a reduced 10-year sentence.
On April 18, 2023, UKMTO reported three maritime security incidents near the Strait of Hormuz within three hours. A tanker was fired upon by Iranian gunboats, a container ship was hit by a projectile, and a commercial vessel observed a splash. The agency urged heightened caution for all vessels in the area.
Over 5,600 Filipino seafarers remain stranded on 533 vessels in the Middle East due to the ongoing Gulf crisis. The Department of Migrant Workers reports 4,844 crew members in the Persian Gulf and 819 in the Gulf of Oman, while the DFA confirms Iran’s assurance for safe passage for Philippine-flagged ships.
At the World Border Security Congress 2026 in Vienna, India showcased its maritime security leadership through a delegation led by Additional Director General Anand Prakash Badola. The event fostered discussions on border security challenges and strategies, highlighting India’s commitment to robust maritime governance and international collaboration in addressing global security issues.
Sagarmala Finance Corporation (SFC), India’s first maritime-focused non-banking financial company, aims to raise ₹10,000 crore ($1.08 billion) in FY27 to enhance funding for ports and shipbuilding. Established in June 2025, SFC will issue bonds and loans to further develop the maritime sector, addressing evolving trade and infrastructure needs.
A 70-year-old passenger has gone missing after reportedly going overboard from the Carnival Splendor during a cruise. Family members alerted the crew around 2:00 AM when he was found missing. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is leading a search operation, while the ship conducts a zigzag search pattern nearby.
During a UN General Assembly debate on April 17, 2026, India’s Ambassador Harish P expressed deep concerns about threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. He condemned attacks on civilian vessels, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and adherence to maritime law to ensure safe navigation amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Four states have ratified the 2010 HNS Convention, advancing its entry into force. This treaty aims to ensure timely compensation for damages from hazardous substances transported by sea. Currently, 12 states have joined, with five meeting the gross tonnage requirement, paving the way for potential implementation by late 2027.
India is increasingly concerned about shipping vulnerabilities in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil. With over 60% of its crude imports passing through, the government is enhancing supply chain resilience. Measures include expanding Strategic Petroleum Reserves and improving logistical infrastructure, amid rising freight costs and geopolitical tensions.
The Nord Stream gas pipelines were damaged in 2022 amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Nord Stream company is suing Lloyd’s and Arch Insurance for nearly 580 million euros following September explosions that disrupted gas supplies. Insurers claim damages from war are excluded, while the trial will investigate links to the conflict.
