India Rolls Out Seafarer‑First Plan After Hormuz Attack

The Government of India has unveiled the Seafarer‑First Initiative following a deadly missile strike on a merchant vessel in the Strait of Hormuz that killed Indian seafarer Rohan Kumar and injured several others.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that the initiative will prioritise crew safety in high‑risk maritime zones such as the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman.

A real‑time monitoring dashboard will track vessel details, crew welfare, voyage plans, and potential threats.

The Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Navy, Directorate General of Shipping, and Indian missions in Iran and Oman will coordinate round‑the‑clock to provide emergency support.

Dedicated liaison officers will assist affected families, while helplines, WhatsApp, and email channels will offer 24×7 grievance redressal.

India has strongly condemned the attacks, calling them violations of international maritime law and threats to global supply chains.

Shipowners and recruitment agencies have been instructed to conduct fresh risk assessments before sending Indian crew into conflict zones.

The initiative underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its seafarers while ensuring uninterrupted global trade.