On August 4, the Indian-flagged vessel Faize Noore Oliya was attacked and sunk off Yemen’s coast in the southern Red Sea. Identified as a bomb-boat attack, all crew members, including 13 Indians, were rescued by the Yemeni coast guard. The Indian government is coordinating efforts for their safety.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) has secured a Notification of Award from ONGC for constructing four Platform Supply Vessels (PSVs). This project, dated July 30, 2026, enhances GRSE’s shipbuilding capabilities with advanced, environmentally-friendly designs. The vessels will utilize hybrid propulsion for efficient offshore logistics support.
Recent archaeological assessments at Palur, Odisha, have revealed significant findings of a thriving maritime settlement that lasted over two millennia. Artifacts, including red polished ware and marked potsherds, suggest extensive trade connections with Southeast Asia. This research highlights Palur’s role as a vital maritime hub in ancient history.
The Supreme Court has directed the Ministry of External Affairs to locate Deepak Kumar Gupta, an Indian seafarer missing after a drone attack on the MV AGN Ragnar in the Black Sea. Conflicting reports about the crew’s fate prompted urgent action, with the Court emphasizing the need for clarity and swift information gathering.
A tragic incident occurred near the Muthalapozhi Estuary in Kerala, India, when a fishing vessel capsized late Friday night. One crew member has been confirmed dead, while another is missing. Strong waves overwhelmed the boat, leading to the swift rescue of two members while the others were lost at sea.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is in touch with the families of two Indian nationals missing after the MV AG N Ragnar was attacked near Ukraine’s Odesa port. Four crew members were aboard, with two confirmed safe. Search operations are ongoing, coordinated by Ukrainian and Romanian authorities.
In a crucial diplomatic meeting, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to prevent attacks on commercial shipping. This appeal highlights India’s commitment to maritime security amid rising tensions, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding trade routes and the safety of its citizens abroad.
On July 30, 2026, India launched its first sovereign-backed Protection and Indemnity (P&I) insurance through the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool, presented by Financial Services Secretary Sanjay Lohia. This comprehensive product covers third-party liabilities, enhancing maritime risk management and promoting self-reliance in specialized insurance solutions for the shipping industry.
Since January, at least 16 Indian nationals, including 10 seafarers, have died in the ongoing West Asia conflict, with 75 others injured. The fatalities occurred in countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, and the UAE. The Ministry of External Affairs is providing support, including medical assistance and repatriation efforts.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, reviewed the safety of Indian seafarers in conflict areas amid rising geopolitical tensions. He prioritized their welfare, emphasizing support from the Directorate General of Shipping and Indian Missions. Enhanced training and mental health resources were discussed to ensure comprehensive care for seafarers and their families.
The recent advisory from the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) addresses a rise in piracy incidents since April 2026. Authorities urge maritime stakeholders, including shipowners and security officers, to enhance security measures. Adhering to the Best Management Practices (BMP 5) is crucial for safeguarding vessels and crews against piracy threats.
In response to rising geopolitical tensions, the Indian government has mandated enhanced coordination among agencies to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding mariners, providing timely assistance, and integrating mental health support within the welfare framework for seafarers and their families.
The maritime safety situation in Ukraine has worsened after the MV AGN Ragnar incident at Odesa port on July 25, leaving two Indian crew members missing. In response, the Indian government is collaborating with Ukrainian authorities to locate them, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced maritime security in conflict zones.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is monitoring the safety of 166 Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf and near the Strait of Hormuz due to rising maritime security threats. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that 125 seafarers are on Indian vessels, while 41 are on foreign ships, emphasizing ongoing safety concerns.
Thirteen Indian seafarers are stranded aboard the MV AMIR1 at Ukraine’s Chornomorsk port, facing life-threatening conditions due to ongoing drone and missile attacks. The Forward Seamen’s Union of India has urgently called for action from shipowners and government officials to ensure the crew’s safety and facilitate their evacuation.
