The Government of India has stepped up surveillance and coordination efforts to safeguard Indian seafarers and maritime interests amid the deteriorating security situation in the Gulf region, following a missile attack on a merchant vessel that claimed the lives of three Indian crew members.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, through the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), said it is maintaining continuous monitoring of developments in the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and adjoining maritime areas.

According to an official statement, the government is working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Navy, Indian missions abroad, maritime authorities of friendly countries, shipping companies and seafarers’ welfare organisations to ensure timely support and assistance to Indian nationals working at sea.

The ministry noted that recent attacks involving commercial vessels have underscored the growing risks facing international shipping routes that are critical to global trade and energy security.

Missile Attack Claims Lives Of Three Indian Seafarers

Among the incidents under watch is the June 10 missile attack on MT Settebello, a Palau-flagged medium-range tanker operating around 20 nautical miles northeast of Sohar in Oman.

The vessel had 28 crew members on board, including 24 Indians.

Authorities initially reported three Indian seafarers missing. Subsequent information received from Oman’s Maritime Security Centre and the vessel’s management confirmed that the bodies of the missing crew members had been located and identified.

The remaining crew members were rescued safely.

The government said efforts are being expedited to repatriate the rescued seafarers and ensure the dignified return of the mortal remains to their families.

Expressing condolences, Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal described the incident as a profound loss for the country’s maritime community.

He said the safety of Indian citizens, protection of maritime interests and uninterrupted movement of legitimate cargo remain the government’s highest priorities.

Heightened Vigilance Ordered For Ships And Seafarers

The Directorate General of Shipping has advised Indian seafarers serving on both Indian and foreign-flagged vessels transiting conflict-affected waters to exercise utmost caution.

Shipping companies, vessel operators and ship managers have been directed to adhere strictly to maritime security protocols, maintain enhanced situational awareness and closely follow advisories issued by Indian authorities and international agencies.

Stakeholders have also been instructed to immediately report any incident involving Indian seafarers to facilitate swift intervention and coordination.

The government said dedicated communication channels and emergency response mechanisms are functioning round the clock to provide assistance to seafarers and their families.

Financial Assistance Announced For Families

The government reiterated that the welfare and security of Indian seafarers remain paramount.

Under established protocols, the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society, operating under the Directorate General of Shipping, will provide financial support and other eligible benefits to affected families.

The ministry said Rs 10 lakh will be released to the families of each of the deceased seafarers.

Sonowal said the government stands firmly with the bereaved families and has directed officials to ensure the immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and the swift return of the mortal remains for final rites.

The Directorate General of Shipping and the concerned Recruitment and Placement Service License agencies are maintaining constant contact with the next of kin and coordinating all necessary arrangements.

The government said it would continue to take every necessary measure to protect Indian seafarers and uphold the country’s maritime interests during the current period of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

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