New Delhi | August 8, 2026
India Repatriates 4,052 Seafarers, Enhances Maritime Safety Measures Amid Middle East Security Concerns
The Government of India has repatriated 4,052 Indian seafarers from the Gulf region while ensuring the safe passage of 62 vessels through the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened security concerns in the Middle East, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal informed Parliament on Friday.
Responding to a written question in the Lok Sabha, the minister said that as of August 3, the vessels that successfully transited the strategic waterway included 23 Indian-flagged ships and 39 foreign-flagged vessels.
Maritime Safety Measures Intensified
Sonowal said the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has been continuously updating its safety advisories to protect Indian seafarers as the regional security environment evolves.
Following renewed attacks on commercial shipping in the region, the DGS has directed vessels to implement the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code at the highest security level where required. Authorities have also advised shipping companies to avoid deploying Indian seafarers on voyages considered to involve elevated security risks in the Gulf region.
Fresh Advisories for High-Risk Maritime Zones
The government has also issued updated operational advisories for ships carrying Indian seafarers in other sensitive waters.
For vessels operating in the Black Sea, shipping companies have been instructed to conduct voyage-specific security assessments, strictly follow official advisories, exercise heightened caution, and immediately report any security-related incidents.
Separate guidance has also been issued for vessels transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the southern Red Sea, and nearby waters off Yemen, advising shipowners and masters to closely monitor the security situation and implement additional risk mitigation measures where necessary.
24×7 Monitoring and Emergency Response
To strengthen maritime security, the government has established a dedicated 24×7 control room to monitor ship movements and the welfare of Indian seafarers.
According to the minister, authorities are maintaining a live database of vessels and crew members while preparing status reports every 24 hours covering ship movements, incidents, and crew safety.
The Directorate General of Shipping has also introduced an integrated digital platform featuring round-the-clock maritime incident reporting, crisis management, and grievance redressal services for Indian seafarers.
Support for Seafarers and Their Families
Sonowal said the government continues to remain in contact with families of affected seafarers and is providing welfare assistance wherever required.
In cases involving fatalities, compensation is being provided under existing provisions. The government also offers immediate financial support of ₹10 lakh through the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society to assist eligible families during emergencies.
Key Highlights
- India has repatriated 4,052 seafarers from the Gulf region.
- 62 ships safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz by August 3.
- The fleet included 23 Indian-flagged and 39 foreign-flagged vessels.
- The Directorate General of Shipping has strengthened maritime security advisories.
- A 24×7 monitoring system and digital crisis management platform are operational.
- Financial assistance of ₹10 lakh is available through the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society in eligible cases.
Official Websites
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
https://shipmin.gov.in
Directorate General of Shipping
https://www.dgshipping.gov.in
Parliament of India
https://sansad.in
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indian seafarers have been brought back from the Gulf?
The government informed Parliament that 4,052 seafarers have been repatriated.
How many ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely?
As of August 3, 62 vessels had safely transited the Strait of Hormuz, including Indian- and foreign-flagged ships.
What new safety measures have been introduced?
Authorities have updated maritime security advisories, strengthened ISPS Code compliance, established a 24×7 monitoring system, and launched a digital platform for incident reporting and crisis management.
What assistance is available for affected seafarers?
The government said it remains in contact with affected families and provides compensation where applicable, including immediate financial assistance through the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society.
