India Announces Seafarer-First Maritime Safety Plan

India announced the “Seafarer-First” emergency maritime safety plan on 15 July 2026 in New Delhi after attacks on the merchant vessels MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa in the Strait of Hormuz. The plan covers Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Gulf of Oman, and it includes operational tracking, family liaison, and emergency coordination measures.

Maritime security context

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow sea passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is one of the world’s most important oil and shipping routes, and merchant vessels passing through it often face security advisories during periods of regional tension. The attacks on MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa caused the death of one Indian seafarer, Rohan Kumar. Nine crew members on MT Mombasa were injured, including two in critical condition, and one crew member on MT Al Bahiyah was injured.

Key features of the emergency plan

• The Directorate General of Shipping will maintain a real-time operational dashboard for Indian seafarers on vessels in high-risk waters.
• Dedicated liaison officers will serve as a single point of contact for affected families.
• A 24×7 helpline has been activated for seafarers and their families.
• Indian embassies in Iran, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates will coordinate for updates and assistance.
• Fresh threat assessments will be required before any ship movement through the affected region.
• Shipowners, vessel managers, and recruitment agencies must ensure that no Indian seafarer sails without safety information and support.

Directorate General of Shipping and circulars

The Directorate General of Shipping issued Circular 21 of 2026 on 10 April 2026 for Indian seafarers in the Middle East. The circular advised seafarers on land to stay indoors and advised those on vessels to limit shore visits in areas affected by tensions around Iranian waters. The Directorate General of Shipping functions under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and regulates merchant shipping, seafarer welfare, and maritime safety in India.

International maritime and diplomatic context

India has raised attacks on merchant vessels with international maritime bodies. Maritime security has also been included in India’s campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2028-29 term.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
• The Directorate General of Shipping is India’s maritime regulator under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
• Merchant vessels are commercial ships used for cargo transport and related maritime trade.
• The United Nations Security Council has 15 members, including 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms.