Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has acquired a 51% stake in Colombo Dockyard PLC for USD 26.8 million, marking India’s first international shipyard acquisition. This strategic move enhances MDL’s shipbuilding capabilities and aligns with India’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, reinforcing its influence in the Indian Ocean.
The Indian-flagged LPG vessel Jag Vikram successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, carrying 20,400 metric tonnes of LPG. It is expected to reach Kandla port by Tuesday. All Indian seafarers in the region are safe, with no incidents reported in the last 24 hours, ensuring smooth maritime operations.
The Indian government confirmed on Sunday that all Indian seafarers in the Gulf and West Asia are safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the last 24 hours. Over 2,084 seafarers have been successfully repatriated, including 75 in the last day, while port operations across India remain normal.
On April 11, the Indian government announced that the LPG vessel Jag Vikram successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz amid regional tensions. Carrying 20,400 metric tonnes of LPG, it is set to arrive in Mumbai on April 15. Authorities remain vigilant, ensuring the safety of all Indian seafarers in the area.
Sixteen Indian seafarers aboard the MT AURORA are urgently seeking repatriation after a suspected drone attack near Dubai. With limited supplies and safety concerns, they reported significant damage to the vessel. Despite not being paid for over 40 days, management pressures them to sail to Iran, threatening salary withholding.
Cruising is transforming economies and opportunities, as emphasized by Gloria Guevara of the WTTC. With India’s extensive waterways, the industry is poised for growth, supporting jobs and tourism. In 2024, global cruise passengers reached 34.6 million, with India launching 38 river cruise circuits to capitalize on this burgeoning sector.
To assess its readiness for methanol bunkering, the port engaged DNV Maritime Advisory Services, achieving a Level 6 rating on the IAPH Port Readiness Level scale. On April 2, 2026, it successfully conducted a trial shore-to-ship bunkering operation, confirming compliance with global safety standards and reinforcing its commitment to innovative fuel solutions.
The Indian government has issued a safety advisory for seafarers in Iran, urging them to stay indoors for 48 hours amid rising regional tensions. Indian nationals are advised to avoid sensitive areas and coordinate with the Embassy of India in Tehran for travel safety. Vigilance is essential during this heightened alert.
The Deendayal Port Authority has made notable advancements in green shipping by successfully conducting methanol bunkering, positioning India’s ports as leaders in low-carbon trade. With plans to provide 500 KTPA of e-methanol by 2028-29, Kandla Port aims to enhance its infrastructure and operational capabilities for cleaner marine fuels.
India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has confirmed that maritime operations are unaffected by the ongoing West Asia conflict. With a recent US-Iran ceasefire, all Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf are safe. The government continues to ensure uninterrupted maritime trade and close monitoring of vessels in the region.
India has welcomed its first shipment of Iranian crude oil in nearly seven years, marking a significant shift in its energy landscape. Secured by Indian Oil Corp aboard the VLCC Jaya, this development follows a US-induced pause on imports and reflects India’s urgent need for diverse energy sources amid regional tensions.
During a media briefing, Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, assured the safety of Indian seafarers in West Asia amid rising tensions. He stated that operations continue uninterrupted, emphasizing government efforts to monitor vessels and crews in the Persian Gulf to ensure their safety.
On Wednesday, Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman visited India, signaling a potential thaw in relations. His discussions with Indian officials focused on energy cooperation, including requests for increased fuel and fertilizer supplies. The talks also aimed to ease travel restrictions and enhance security cooperation, marking a diplomatic initiative from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s administration.
India is set to launch a USD 1.5 billion sovereign guarantee fund to bolster reinsurance for domestic marine insurers servicing vessels in high-risk areas like the Persian Gulf. This initiative addresses a severe marine war risk insurance market disruption, with European premiums surging up to 1000% since February, ensuring operational confidence for Indian shippers.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has confirmed the safety of Indian seafarers in the Western Persian Gulf. No incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels were reported in the past 24 hours. Two LPG carriers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the safety of operations amid geopolitical concerns.
