Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal reviewed the safety and welfare measures for Indian seafarers working on merchant vessels in conflict-sensitive regions amid rising geopolitical tensions affecting global shipping routes.

The Minister held a comprehensive review meeting yesterday with senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs, Directorate General of Shipping and Heads of Indian Missions from countries including Oman, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia and Ukraine.

During the meeting, Mr Sonowal was briefed on the prevailing security situation, maritime developments and the preparedness of Indian missions abroad to assist Indian seafarers during emergencies. He directed all concerned agencies to maintain constant coordination, stressing that the safety of Indian seafarers remains the government’s foremost priority.

The Directorate General of Shipping informed that its 24×7 Seafarer Grievance and Assistance Cell is fully operational, providing round-the-clock support through dedicated helplines, information services and grievance redressal mechanisms. The Minister also reviewed measures to enhance seafarer preparedness before deployment.

Mr Sonowal further emphasised integrating mental health support into the seafarer welfare framework through counselling services for seafarers and their families. He directed officials to maintain close coordination with Indian Missions abroad, shipping companies, maritime authorities and other stakeholders to ensure a proactive and effective response mechanism for the Indian maritime community.