India has reiterated that no Indian‑flagged vessel has so far been hit, detained or boarded in the conflict‑hit West Asia maritime theatre, even as it activated a raft of safety mechanisms to protect ships and crew transiting the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz.
In a press note, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) said that “as per the latest reports, there have been no confirmed instances of casualty, detention or boarding involving Indian‑flagged vessels,” clarifying that recent fatalities involved Indian seafarers serving on foreign‑flag ships caught in attacks off Oman and nearby waters. At least three Indian sailors have died and one has been injured in those incidents, but DGS stressed that “the remaining crew members on board are safe and secure,” with authorities in close touch with ship managers and families.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has moved to enhance monitoring and security oversight, including real‑time tracking of Indian‑flagged ships in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and adjoining areas, backed by mandatory reporting protocols and 24×7 watch at DGS and maritime centres. Vessels and operators have been told to maintain heightened vigilance, conduct voyage‑specific risk assessments, strengthen bridge watches, keep continuous communication readiness and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Shipping companies and Recruitment and Placement Service Licensees (RPSLs) have also been advised to exercise caution on crew deployment in high‑risk waters and to keep seafarers and their families regularly informed. Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has said his ministry is prepared to extend “all necessary operational, diplomatic and humanitarian support” to safeguard Indian vessels, Indian seafarers and maritime trade flows as the West Asia situation evolves.
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