New Delhi: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) confirmed on Friday that Indian-flagged ships continue to remain safe, with no confirmed detention, boarding, or casualty reported.
The update was provided during a high-level inter-ministerial review meeting chaired by the secretary, MoPSW, to assess the evolving maritime situation in the West Asia region.
According to the ministry, all 35 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf region – 24 west of the Strait of Hormuz and 11 east, including the Gulf of Oman and adjoining areas – along with three vessels in the Gulf of Aden, are being continuously tracked through the LRIT National Data Centre, with regular SITREPs issued to maintain situational awareness.
The ministry said it has strengthened monitoring and preparedness measures to safeguard Indian seafarers, ensure the safety of Indian vessels, and maintain continuity of maritime trade. A 24-hour helpline has been established at the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) to facilitate coordination and support for seafarers, according to an official statement.
During the review, officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and key stakeholders from shipping and trade organizations, including RIL, INSA, CSLA, and FIEO, participated. The meeting followed up on earlier assessments conducted by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
The ministry also issued advisories instructing Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers to adopt enhanced security measures and follow strict reporting protocols. Earlier, the DGS circular directed all Indian vessels and seafarers to comply with safety protocol.
MoPSW is closely monitoring developments in coordination with major Indian ports, maritime authorities, and other agencies. Shipping companies, vessel operators, and Recruitment and Placement Service Licensees have been advised to exercise caution in crew deployment, conduct voyage-specific risk assessments, and maintain regular communication with seafarers and their families.
The ministry also reviewed vessels and cargo bound for GCC and West Asian destinations, noting that overall port operations across India remain stable. Ports have been directed to extend necessary support to exporters, ensure continuity of EXIM trade, and prioritize handling of refrigerated and perishable cargo.
Major ports have implemented operational measures, including continuous vessel monitoring, real-time assessment of regional developments, and reporting of vessel and cargo status. Additional storage space has been arranged wherever required to ensure uninterrupted maritime logistics.
The ministry continues to coordinate with maritime stakeholders and relevant government departments to safeguard Indian maritime interests, ensure the safety of seafarers, and maintain the smooth functioning of maritime trade and logistics operations.
