Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, recently met with stakeholders in Mumbai to address seafarer security, safety, and welfare amid geopolitical tensions affecting the shipping industry. Emphasizing the government’s commitment, he discussed collaborative efforts to enhance protections for seafarers, crucial for global trade and maritime operations.
The family of Deepak Gupta, a 22-year-old crew member missing after an attack near Ukraine’s Odesa port, expressed frustration over the Ministry of External Affairs’ lack of response. Despite multiple outreach attempts, they received no assurances. The Supreme Court has since directed the MEA to utilize diplomatic channels for assistance.
India’s maritime regulatory authority reports the tragic loss of 15 seafarers and two missing amidst rising conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea. At the National Port Security Conference, DGMA’s Shyam Jagannathan warned of increasing maritime security threats, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and coordination for seafarer protection.
Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal held a vital review meeting to assess the safety of Indian seafarers amid West Asia’s geopolitical tensions. Emphasizing the government’s commitment, he highlighted the successful repatriation of over 4,000 stranded seafarers, showcasing initiatives like the DGCOMM Centre and financial support for families.
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced the successful repatriation of 4,052 Indian seafarers amid the West Asia crisis. He highlighted the efforts of the DGCOMM Centre, which managed over 16,000 distress calls. The government is providing financial assistance to affected families and reaffirmed its commitment to seafarer safety and welfare.
India has successfully ensured the safe passage of 60 merchant vessels through the crucial Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing regional tensions. This achievement underscores India’s commitment to maritime security. Additionally, nearly 4,000 Indian seafarers have been repatriated, reflecting the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens in volatile environments.
On July 28, the Indian Coast Guard successfully evacuated two injured seafarers from a Panama-flagged vessel off Goa’s coast. Jismsher Davitaze, 37, and Arun Babu Varukattu, 34, received urgent medical attention after their rescue, highlighting the Coast Guard’s vital role in maritime safety and emergency response.
