India has placed maritime agencies on the highest level of alert amid the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Gulf region, following a missile attack on a commercial tanker that claimed the lives of three Indian seafarers.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), through the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), said it is closely monitoring developments in the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and adjoining maritime zones, which have witnessed heightened security threats in recent weeks.
The move comes after the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello was reportedly struck by a missile on June 10 while operating about 20 nautical miles northeast of Sohar, Oman. The vessel was carrying 28 crew members, including 24 Indian nationals.
According to information received from Oman’s Maritime Security Centre and the ship’s management, three Indian seafarers lost their lives in the attack. The remaining crew members were rescued safely. Authorities have since identified and recovered the bodies of the deceased, while efforts are underway to repatriate both the survivors and the mortal remains of the victims to India.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the government was fully committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers serving across the globe.
“The Government is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Gulf region and remains fully committed to the safety, security and welfare of every Indian seafarer. All relevant ministries, agencies and Indian missions abroad are working in close coordination to provide timely support and assistance whenever required,” Sonowal said.
Expressing grief over the deaths, the minister described the incident as a tragic loss for India’s maritime community.
“It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the incident aboard MT Settebello. Three Indian seafarers initially reported missing have now been confirmed dead after their bodies were located and identified. The safety of Indian citizens, protection of Indian maritime interests and uninterrupted movement of legitimate cargo remain our highest priorities,” he said.
The government has intensified coordination among the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Navy, Indian diplomatic missions, shipping companies, maritime administrations of partner countries and seafarers’ welfare organisations to address emerging risks in the region.
The MoPSW said all concerned agencies have been directed to remain on heightened alert and maintain readiness to respond to any contingency involving Indian crew members or Indian maritime interests.
The Directorate General of Shipping has advised Indian seafarers serving on both Indian and foreign-flagged vessels transiting through conflict-prone waters to exercise maximum caution. Ship operators, managers and vessel owners have also been instructed to strictly follow maritime security protocols and continuously monitor advisories issued by Indian and international authorities.
The government has urged stakeholders to immediately report any incident involving Indian seafarers to facilitate rapid intervention and assistance. Emergency communication channels and response mechanisms have been activated round the clock to support affected crew members and their families.
To assist the families of the deceased, the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS), functioning under the Directorate General of Shipping, has announced financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh for each affected family. Additional welfare benefits and support measures will also be extended in accordance with existing provisions.
Calling the tragedy a “profound loss to the maritime family,” Sonowal said he had directed officials to expedite the return of the rescued crew members and ensure the dignified repatriation of the mortal remains.
The Directorate General of Shipping and the concerned Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) agencies remain in constant contact with the families of the affected seafarers. Authorities are coordinating all logistical arrangements related to repatriation and family assistance.
The government reiterated that the welfare, safety and security of Indian seafarers remain paramount and pledged to take all necessary measures to protect Indian maritime interests amid continuing geopolitical uncertainty in one of the world’s most strategically important shipping corridors.
