In response to rising safety concerns for Indian seafarers amid recent vessel attacks in West Asia, the Directorate General of Shipping has launched e-Navik 24×7, a digital grievance redressal platform. This initiative enables seafarers and shipping companies to submit and track complaints in real time, enhancing support and efficiency.
The Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM) has formally protested to the US Ambassador regarding the deaths of three Indian seafarers in recent military actions. Expressing “deep pain and anguish,” SJM criticized the US response as insensitive and called for an impartial investigation, accountability, and compensation for the victims’ families.
Shyam Jagannathan, India’s Director General of Shipping, has introduced an eight-pillar decarbonization roadmap for the maritime sector, essential for 90%-95% of international trade. Emphasizing green fuels, ship recycling, and seafarer training, he called for sustainable shipping investments to combat shipping’s 2%-3% global carbon emissions contribution, ensuring a greener future for India.
The Indian LNG carrier Disha has made history by navigating the Strait of Hormuz, becoming the first LNG vessel bound for India to depart this high-risk area in over three months. Managed by the Shipping Corporation of India and chartered by Petronet LNG, it carries approximately 62,370 metric tonnes of LNG.
JSW Infrastructure Ltd, part of the $23 billion JSW group, is evaluating a proposed greenfield deep-sea port at Dadanpatrabar, West Bengal. This decision follows the state government’s announcement of shifting from Tajpur, aligning with JSW’s commitment to industrial growth and increasing cargo demands, supported by improved connectivity and land availability.
Over 562 Indian sailors have been stranded for 107 days on 13 vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman due to rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The situation has led to uncertainty at sea, with ongoing efforts to address crew welfare and individual vessel incidents.
India has launched its first Wind Turbine Supply Chain Management Portal to strengthen the domestic wind energy sector. This platform enhances manufacturing, promotes exports, and enables efficient tracking of components from production to project sites. It aims to improve coordination among stakeholders and elevate India’s position as a key player in global wind energy.
Twelve cargo ships carrying vital supplies of urea and DAP are set to arrive at Indian ports within the next week, offering essential support for the upcoming kharif planting season. With current fertilizer stocks deemed sufficient, proactive measures are in place to ensure farmers receive adequate resources for agricultural productivity.
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is set to bolster India’s maritime security as a Recognised Security Organisation under the ISPS Code. This initiative supports the vision of a technology-driven security framework, enhancing port safety and aligning with India’s Blue Economy 2.0 and Amrit Kaal 2047 objectives.
In a recent briefing, the Indian government reported the repatriation of 3,587 seafarers amid rising tensions in West Asia. Opesh Kumar Sharma highlighted the ministry’s commitment to maritime safety, noting close surveillance of Indian vessels. Concerns intensified after the deaths of three seafarers in an attack on the MT Settebello.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has urged fleet owners to limit Indian seafarer deployments in the Persian Gulf due to escalating attacks on vessels. Following the tragic loss of three Indian seafarers in a U.S. strike, the DGS recommended heightened vigilance and adherence to security protocols for ship captains in the region.
India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, led by Mukesh Mangal, is prepared to bolster seafarer repatriation from West Asia as needed. With 562 Indian seafarers currently aboard 13 vessels and recent maritime security incidents raising concerns, the Ministry has already facilitated the safe return of over 3,537 seafarers.
The family of Aditya Sharma, a 23-year-old Indian seafarer who tragically died during an alleged U.S. attack on the MT Settebello, is demanding a thorough investigation. While 21 crew members were rescued, his family’s grief is compounded by concerns over the vessel’s command decisions and working conditions, prompting urgent calls for accountability.
On Wednesday, India summoned the US Chargé d’Affaires to express strong discontent over an attack on the Settebello off Oman’s coast, which left three Indian crew members missing. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the assault, confirming 21 out of 24 crew members were rescued and urging for safe navigation in international waters.
Afcons Infrastructure Ltd has received a Letter of Award from Vadhvan Port Project Limited to construct a 10.14-km offshore breakwater at the new Vadhvan Port in Maharashtra. Valued at ₹5,301 crore, this contract represents Afcons’ largest marine project and signifies a major advancement for India’s largest planned public port.
