Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal convened a crucial review meeting with senior officials to evaluate the safety and security of Indian seafarers in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia. This meeting underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of its seafarers, a vision that has led to a marked increase in the number of Indian seafarers since 2014, positioning India as the world’s second-largest supplier.
In a recent social media update, Sonowal emphasized the role of the DGCOMM Centre, which operates continuously to monitor distress signals and coordinate rescue operations. He reported that over 4,000 stranded Indian seafarers have been successfully repatriated during the current crisis. The emergency response channels have managed an impressive volume of inquiries, handling more than 16,000 calls and 40,000 emails.
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration is actively providing various forms of support, including repatriation assistance, medical care, and counseling for the families of affected seafarers. Additionally, under the SWFS Special High-Risk Area Scheme, financial assistance of ten lakh rupees is being extended to the families of deceased seafarers, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to their welfare.
