India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has assured that all Indian seafarers operating in the West Asia region, particularly in the Persian Gulf, are safe amidst regional tensions. There have been no reported incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels, and port operations throughout the country are running smoothly. During an inter-ministerial briefing, Mukesh Mangal, the Additional Secretary of the Ministry, confirmed that maritime activities are ongoing without congestion, reflecting the effectiveness of operational protocols.
The Ministry has successfully handled high volumes of communication, processing thousands of calls and emails to ensure the safe repatriation of over 2,400 Indian seafarers. Notably, 30 seafarers returned home in the last 24 hours alone. The coordinated response involves close collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs and Indian Missions, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to safeguarding the welfare of seafarers in potentially volatile environments.
Aseem Mahajan, the Joint Secretary (Gulf), underscored the proactive measures being taken to ensure the safety of Indian citizens abroad. Control rooms established as part of this effort play a crucial role in maintaining constant communication and providing timely assistance to those in need. This seamless coordination aims to address any challenges the seafarers may face while navigating through the geopolitical complexities of the region.
Overall, the Ministry’s swift actions and inter-agency collaboration indicate a strong commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian seafarers, reinforcing the infrastructure required for effective maritime operations during uncertain times.
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