NewzVille Desk
As geopolitical tensions continue to impact key global shipping routes, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal, today undertook a comprehensive review of the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers serving aboard merchant vessels in conflict-sensitive regions, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to ensuring that every Indian mariner remains safe, informed and supported.
The review brought together senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), and Heads of Indian Missions from countries across West Asia and the Black Sea region, including Oman, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia and Ukraine.
The Minister was briefed on the prevailing security situation, maritime developments and the preparedness of Indian diplomatic missions to respond swiftly to any contingency involving Indian seafarers.
During the meeting, Sarbananda Sonowal directed officials to maintain constant coordination across all agencies and emphasised that the safety of Indian seafarers must remain the Government’s foremost priority. “No Indian seafarer should find himself caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflict. Every possible measure must be taken to safeguard our seafarers, support their families and ensure timely assistance wherever required,” Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said.
The Directorate General of Shipping further informed the Minister that its 24×7 Seafarer Grievance and Assistance Cell is fully operational, providing round-the-clock support to Indian seafarers and their families through dedicated helplines, information services and grievance redressal mechanisms.
To strengthen preparedness before deployment, the Minister also reviewed initiatives to enhance awareness among seafarers. The Recruitment and Placement Service Licensees (RPSLs) are being engaged to conduct structured pre-departure orientation programmes, enabling seafarers to better understand operational conditions, security protocols and evolving geopolitical risks in areas where they may be deployed.
