New Delhi: Recently, 50 Indian seafarers returned home from the Gulf region, while around 540 seafarers remain aboard 20 Indian vessels. The Ministry of Shipping provided this update during a briefing on ongoing maritime conditions in West Asia.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, special secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, assured that port operations are running smoothly. There is currently no congestion at ports, allowing for normal shipping activities. The Ministry is actively monitoring the safety of Indian seafarers and the overall status of maritime trade in light of developments in the region.
Sinha mentioned that the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) is working closely with ship owners and agencies to oversee the situation. They have received over 4,100 calls and nearly 8,000 emails from seafarers and their families, indicating the high level of concern among them.
“So far, we have helped the safe return of over 635 Indian seafarers. This includes the 50 who came back in the last day,” he noted. State Maritime Boards from states like Gujarat and Maharashtra confirmed that all ports are closely monitoring vessel movements, with enough space available for safe operations.
On the diplomatic front, Randhir Jaiswal from the External Affairs Ministry shared that conversations with leaders around the world are ongoing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump about peace efforts in West Asia. He also had discussions with the President of Sri Lanka regarding energy security concerns.
Another official, Aseem R. Mahajan, stated that Indian Missions abroad are providing vital support to students, seafarers, and visitors. They are issuing regular advisories and assisting with consular services.
Recent statistics show that since February 28, approximately 426,000 passengers have returned to India from the region, with 2,149 flights operating. Indian nationals in Iran are also being assisted in traveling home via Armenia and Azerbaijan. Challenges remain in places like Kuwait and Iraq, but transit through Saudi Arabia is being facilitated.
The Ministry is not only focusing on repatriation efforts but also providing support in unfortunate cases, including the return of deceased individuals. Indian Missions in the Gulf are working closely with local authorities regarding missing Indian nationals.
In times of uncertainty, the commitment to ensuring safety and support for Indian seafarers and citizens abroad remains strong. For those looking for more information on maritime safety and trade in volatile regions, you can find details on the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways website.
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MINISTRY OF SHIPPING, INDIAN SEAFARERS REPATRIATED, DG SHIPPING, INTER MINISTERIAL BRIEFING, WEST ASIA CRISIS, 50 INDIAN SEAFARERS REPATRIATED FROM GULF IN LAST 24 HOURS: MINISTRY OF SHIPPING
