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.
On Monday, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the Gujarat Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Policy 2026, aiming to establish the state as a global maritime hub. The initiative focuses on modern infrastructure, advanced technologies, and sustainable practices, aligning with national goals for shipbuilding and enhancing Gujarat’s extensive maritime capabilities.
A significant advancement for India’s maritime workforce has been announced with the release of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Shore Leave Passes by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration. This initiative aims to enhance the welfare of Indian seafarers and improve operational efficiency at the nation’s ports.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has launched a six-month Structured Onboard Training Programme aboard the MV Swaraj Dweep. Initiated on July 15, 2026, this initiative aims to enhance the employability of Indian seafarers by providing essential onboard training for General Purpose Rating and Maritime Catering trainees.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India summoned Ukraine’s Ambassador after an attack on the merchant vessel MV OMORFI near Odesa, which killed an Indian seafarer. The MEA condemned the assaults on commercial shipping and urged Ukraine to prioritize the safety of civilian seafarers, emphasizing the need for diplomatic action.
A merchant vessel with four Indian nationals was struck at the Port of Odesa, Ukraine, leaving two crew members safe. Ongoing search and rescue operations are underway for the remaining two. The Indian Embassy in Kyiv is closely monitoring the situation amid heightened risks in the region due to ongoing conflict.
Engineers India Ltd (EIL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) to enhance India’s maritime infrastructure. This partnership will leverage EIL’s expertise in engineering and project management to support the DGMA in planning and executing various maritime projects, promoting sustainability and operational efficiency.
On Sunday, the Indian government urged citizens to assess security conditions before accepting jobs in conflict-affected maritime zones, particularly the Black Sea. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted risks from missile and drone strikes, following recent incidents that resulted in the deaths of five Indian nationals aboard commercial vessels.
The Indian government has approved a financial package of Rs 69,725 crore to enhance the domestic shipbuilding sector. This initiative includes the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme with Rs 24,736 crore allocated to reduce cost disadvantages for Indian shipyards, alongside a Maritime Development Fund of Rs 25,000 crore for long-term support.
Gujarat is set to enhance its maritime capabilities with the development of three greenfield shipyards and six new ports along its coast, representing a major expansion of India’s maritime infrastructure. The initiative, with an estimated investment exceeding Rs 35,000 crore, aims to position Gujarat as a leading hub for shipbuilding.
The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) has welcomed a second group of 24 trainees for the GP Rating and Certificate Course in Maritime Catering onboard the MV Swaraj Dweep. This initiative, part of the Structured Onboard Training Programme by the Ministry of Ports, aims to enhance maritime training and employability.
