The Indian government reported that 16 Indian-flagged vessels, carrying 433 seafarers, are currently in the western Persian Gulf. The Directorate General of Shipping is monitoring the situation, ensuring safety. Over 1,599 seafarers have been repatriated, with operations at Indian ports running smoothly amid ongoing evacuations from the Gulf region.
On National Maritime Day, India announced a ₹48,862 crore project for the International Container Transshipment Port at Galathea Bay, receiving approval from the Public-Private Partnership Appraisal Committee. This initiative aims to strengthen India’s international shipping position, maintaining a 55% stake for an Indian entity. Prime Minister Modi emphasized enhancing maritime capabilities for economic growth.
During an inter-ministerial press conference, Mukesh Mangal, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, assured that all seafarers in conflict-affected areas are safe. He reported no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels recently and confirmed that two LPG carriers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz amid rising crude oil prices.
SCILAL and Synergy Marine have partnered to enhance maritime training and capability development, focusing on digitalization and sustainability. This collaboration will launch a Diploma in Nautical Studies at SCILAL’s Maritime Training Institute, addressing emerging technologies and decarbonization while aiming to increase India’s global seafaring workforce share by 2030.
A tragic incident at Pune’s Tolani Maritime Institute claimed the life of 20-year-old cadet Vishal Verma when a basketball backboard fell during his workout. Despite immediate help, he succumbed to severe head injuries. This event has raised urgent concerns about safety standards and maintenance of sports equipment in educational institutions.
The remains of 32-year-old seafarer Dixit Solanki, who died in a missile strike off Oman, were returned to Mumbai on Sunday. His family awaits DNA confirmation before conducting final rites. An advocate plans to petition the Bombay High Court for forensic testing, emphasizing the need for verification before proceeding.
On April 5, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated National Maritime Day, highlighting India’s maritime heritage and the vital contributions of individuals in the sector. He affirmed the government’s commitment to harnessing maritime potential for economic growth. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal echoed this, envisioning India as a top global maritime power.
All Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf are reported safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the last 24 hours, according to the Ministry of Ports. Currently, 17 Indian-flagged ships with 460 seafarers are present. The DG Shipping is monitoring the situation closely to ensure crew safety and operational continuity.
National Maritime Day in India, celebrated on April 5, honors the nation’s maritime heritage and the shipping industry’s vital role in global trade. Established in 1964, it commemorates the historic 1919 voyage of SS Loyalty, breaking the British monopoly. The day promotes maritime safety, environmental conservation, and sustainable practices.
Approximately 50 Indian seafarers are stranded at Khorramshahr Port in Iran, urgently seeking repatriation amid missile attacks. In distressing videos, they flee from nearby bombings, pleading for government help. The Forward Seamen’s Union reports complications due to lack of visa information and unresponsive agents, exacerbating their dire situation.
In response to rising tensions in West Asia, India’s Ministry of External Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized maritime security and open commercial shipping, while addressing the safety of Indian nationals in GCC countries amid ongoing conflicts.
Eight Indian seafarers finally returned home after a harrowing ordeal in Iran, sparked by accusations of fuel smuggling. Initially detained in December, their release was delayed amid escalating regional conflicts. The emotional toll remained profound, as personal lives were disrupted, highlighted by crew member Masood Alam’s postponed wedding.
The Shipping Ministry confirmed no incidents involving Indian ships or seafarers over the previous day. Currently, 20 Indian-flagged vessels are operating safely in the Persian Gulf, with effective communication maintained. Additionally, 50 Indian seafarers have been repatriated, and port operations across the country are functioning normally.
India’s shipping ministry has successfully repatriated over 975 seafarers from West Asia amid regional tensions. In the last 24 hours, 11 were returned, showcasing the ministry’s crisis-response efficiency. Mukesh Mangal emphasized ongoing monitoring of 18 Indian-flagged vessels, ensuring crew safety and operational continuity amid distress situations.
Two Indian-flagged gas tankers have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from the UAE to India. The vessels, BW TYR and BW ELM, delivered around 94,000 tonnes of LPG amidst ongoing regional tensions, showcasing India’s commitment to securing energy supplies.
