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India has condemned the attack on MV ROYAD MAMMADOV in the Black Sea, which resulted in two seafarer deaths. Fortunately, all three Indian nationals aboard are safe, though some crew members were injured. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the need for dialogue to ensure maritime security and protect global commerce.
The International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) has launched an updated Global Maritime Professional Body of Knowledge for 2026. This revised framework enhances training programs by outlining essential knowledge, skills, and learning outcomes for maritime professionals, reflecting the latest technological advancements while maintaining alignment with STCW competencies.
The Saudi Cabinet, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has reiterated its strong opposition to threats against navigation in the southern Red Sea and Bab Al Mandab Strait. Emphasizing maritime security, the Cabinet supported Yemen’s legitimate government and activated collective defense commitments to address regional security challenges and Houthi aggression.
For over a year, the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has fought for vulnerable foreign seafarers on cruise ships, which exploit a legal loophole to evade Australian labor laws. Despite new requirements aimed at protecting seafarers’ rights, the MUA remains skeptical, citing ongoing abuse and mistreatment akin to modern slavery.
FBI and Coast Guard investigators are probing a cybersecurity breach involving the VL Prosperity, an oil supertanker whose propulsion system was accessed by hackers near Texas. This incident highlights alarming vulnerabilities in maritime systems, prompting authorities to examine how access was gained and what control hackers may have had over the vessel.
India and Cyprus held their inaugural Joint Maritime Committee meeting in Limassol on September 29, co-chaired by officials from both nations. This pivotal gathering, under the 2017 Agreement on Merchant Shipping, focused on maritime education, investment opportunities, and collaboration, marking a significant step in enhancing bilateral maritime relations.
The dwindling volunteer workforce in Australia is jeopardizing shore leave for seafarers, complicating their access to essential services. With an aging average age of 80, the Mission to Seafarers struggles to provide necessary transport and welfare support, leaving many crew members without vital time on land during their contracts.
Port and maritime unions are urgently calling for stricter safety measures to protect Indian seafarers navigating conflict-affected shipping routes. Rising security threats and recent disruptions have heightened concerns over their safety. Unions demand improved risk assessments, better communication, and comprehensive support for crews operating in high-risk areas to ensure their well-being.
Since its launch in May 2023, India’s Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool (BMIP) has swiftly issued over 3,000 cargo-war insurance policies, enhancing domestic maritime insurance capabilities. With an underwriting capacity of approximately Rs 13,906.5 crore, the BMIP aims to reduce reliance on foreign insurers, supporting Indian shipowners and businesses reliant on maritime trade.
India strongly condemned the attacks on commercial shipping and seafarers during the Gulf conflict at the UN General Assembly, calling such actions “simply unacceptable.” The External Affairs Minister urged all parties to exercise restraint, emphasizing the need to protect civilians and ensure the uninterrupted flow of energy and commerce.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has officially designated four ports as India’s first “mega ports” under the Indian Ports Act, 2025: Mundra, Deendayal, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Paradip. This classification prioritizes performance, notably high cargo volumes, indicating a strategic shift in India’s maritime infrastructure focus.
The recently launched “Group of Friends on Safety & Security of Shipping & Seafarers,” co-chaired by India and Liberia, aims to enhance maritime safety. With representatives from 25 countries, the coalition seeks to combat piracy, protect commercial routes, and prioritize seafarers’ welfare in response to rising threats against global shipping.
The establishment of a Seafarers’ Welfare Centre at Mormugao Port has received official approval, backed by Rs 13 crore from the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society. This initiative aims to enhance support for maritime professionals and includes proposals for a Seamen’s Club, improving facilities and education in the maritime sector.
U.S. and Iranian negotiators in New York are exploring a phased approach to resolve ongoing tensions, focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting sanctions. While Iran seeks economic relief, the U.S. insists on unrestricted vessel passage. Both sides face challenges in yielding leverage, with military tensions escalating.
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has reached a milestone by delivering India’s first passenger vessel powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the catamaran ferry FCV Pilot-01. Currently operational on the Ganges River, it features innovative technology, with a length of 24.8 meters, ensuring efficient and eco-friendly transportation on India’s waterways.
