What happened: ministerial review for safety and welfare of Indian seafarers

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, conducted a comprehensive review of safety and welfare preparedness for Indian seafarers serving on merchant vessels in conflict-sensitive regions. The review was triggered by geopolitical tensions that continue to impact key global shipping routes, creating higher risks for Indian mariners and their families.

The minister 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 meeting focused on security updates, maritime developments, and mission readiness to respond quickly if any contingency involved Indian seafarers.

Sarbananda Sonowal directed officials to keep constant coordination across all agencies and stated that the safety of Indian seafarers must remain the Government’s foremost priority. The minister emphasised safeguarding seafarers, supporting their families, and ensuring timely assistance in any situation linked to geopolitical conflict.

Background and earlier position: inter-agency engagement and welfare support

The Government’s seafarer welfare approach includes structured support and grievance handling through the Directorate General of Shipping. As part of the review, the DGS informed the minister that the 24×7 Seafarer Grievance and Assistance Cell was fully operational, offering round-the-clock support to Indian seafarers and their families.

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