The Central government has announced a comprehensive “Seafarer-First” initiative to ensure the safety of every Indian seafarer operating in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman, regardless of the flag under which their vessel is registered. The move comes after an Indian sailor was killed and several others were injured in missile attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the growing security risks in the region.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has been directed to develop a real-time monitoring system that will track every Indian seafarer working in the conflict-affected region. The digital dashboard will provide live information on vessel location, ownership, cargo, crew strength, welfare conditions, threat levels, voyage plans and emergency support requirements.
The government’s decision follows missile attacks on the oil tankers MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa, which together carried 30 Indian crew members. One Indian seafarer, identified as Rohan Kumar, lost his life, while several others sustained injuries, including two who remain in critical condition. The incident has intensified concerns over the safety of Indian nationals working aboard commercial ships in the conflict-hit waters of West Asia.
As part of the new initiative, the government will establish dedicated family liaison officers, strengthen emergency communication channels and coordinate closely with Indian missions abroad, shipowners and international maritime agencies. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that seafarers have uninterrupted access to food, fuel, medicines, communication facilities and other essential supplies during their voyages.
The Ministry of External Affairs has strongly condemned the attacks on commercial vessels and reiterated India’s demand for the protection of civilian shipping in international waters. New Delhi has also conveyed its concerns through diplomatic channels and urged all parties involved in the regional conflict to exercise restraint and respect international maritime law.
The “Seafarer-First” initiative marks one of India’s most comprehensive maritime welfare measures in recent years. By extending protection to Indian seafarers irrespective of a ship’s registration, the government aims to improve emergency response capabilities, strengthen maritime safety and reassure thousands of Indian sailors working across one of the world’s most strategically important and volatile shipping corridors.
