Centre Launches ‘Seafarer-First’ Initiative

On 14th July 2026, the government launched the ‘Seafarer-First’ initiative to protect Indian seafarers operating in conflict-affected waters of West Asia.

Key Points

Objective: The initiative aims to safeguard Indian seafarers amid escalating maritime security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters.
Real-Time Monitoring: The Directorate General of Shipping will establish a real-time dashboard to monitor Indian seafarers aboard vessels in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman.
Coordinated Response: Multiple ministries, the Indian Navy and Indian Missions in Iran, Oman and the UAE will coordinate round-the-clock for seafarer safety.
Liaison Support: Dedicated liaison officers will be appointed to assist every affected Indian seafarer in the region.
Shipowner Responsibility: Shipowners and recruitment agencies have been directed to ensure seafarers receive adequate information, protection and support before sailing.
Background: The initiative follows attacks on merchant vessels MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa, resulting in casualties and injuries among Indian seafarers.