The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) is actively searching for Indian seafarer Sarthak Mohapatra, reported missing from the Singapore-flagged merchant vessel EA Jersey on February 3, 2026. As a cadet aboard the ship, Mohapatra was last seen in the early hours of that day while the vessel was at sea. The DGS was alerted to his disappearance by Anglo-Eastern Ship Management (India) Pvt Ltd, the recruitment agency responsible for his placement, prompting the activation of their crisis response system.
In coordination with multiple national and international agencies—including the Flag State Administration of Singapore, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre Mauritius (MRCC Mauritius), and the Seafarers’ Welfare Fund Society—the DGS has initiated a robust search and rescue operation. Currently, two to three vessels are assisting MRCC Mauritius in the search.
Mohapatra hails from Gopalabindha village in Odisha’s Bhadrak district, and the DGS has informed his next of kin, providing necessary support to the family during this difficult time. Additionally, a fact-finding investigation has been launched to ensure that contractual and legal obligations are fulfilled, particularly regarding crew welfare under applicable laws and international conventions.
The matter has also escalated to the political level, with Odisha’s Minister for Industries, Sampad Chandra Swain, prompting Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal to intervene in the search efforts. This has led to even greater coordination among all relevant stakeholders. The situation is being reviewed at the highest levels within the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, ensuring ongoing oversight of the search operations.
The Minister and the Secretary of the Ministry have urged the Director General of Shipping to maintain close monitoring of the search and rescue efforts and to ensure the investigation is carried out promptly. The recruitment agency has also been instructed to offer comprehensive support to Mohapatra’s family as they navigate this challenging situation.
In summary, the DGS is employing a multi-faceted approach involving direct search efforts, political engagement, and legal investigations to locate Sarthak Mohapatra, while ensuring that family support is prioritized during this crisis.
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