India ramps up maritime security and tracking in West Asia

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has intensified its maritime security protocols, launching a comprehensive effort to safeguard Indian seafarers, protect national vessels, and ensure uninterrupted maritime trade.

The government confirmed that all Indian-flagged ships in the region currently remain safe, with no reported detentions, boardings, or casualties. At present, 38 vessels are being continuously tracked at hourly intervals through the LRIT National Data Centre, with regular Situation Reports (SITREPs) being issued. This includes 35 Indian-flagged vessels navigating the Persian Gulf (24 west and 11 east of the Strait of Hormuz) and three vessels in the Gulf of Aden.

According to the official press release, to bolster coordination and crisis response, the MoPSW has established a dedicated monitoring mechanism alongside a 24-hour helpline operating out of the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS).

On February 28, 2026, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) issued two critical directives to the maritime community. DGS Circular No. 08 mandates enhanced precautionary security measures and strict compliance with established reporting protocols for all Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers.

Simultaneously, DGS Circular No. 09, a Crew Safety Advisory, issued urgent instructions requiring Indian seafarers and shipping stakeholders to register with the Embassy of India in Tehran and submit relevant crew details to the Directorate.

Authorities have strongly advised shipping companies, vessel operators, and recruitment and placement service licensees (RPSLs) to exercise caution when deploying crew to sensitive areas. These entities are urged to conduct strict voyage-specific risk assessments and maintain regular contact with seafarers and their families back home.

Despite regional volatility, the ministry reports that overall port operations across India remain stable. The MoPSW has proactively engaged with major Indian ports and maritime authorities to mitigate potential disruptions to export-import (EXIM) trade destined for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and West Asian markets.

Key operational measures implemented at domestic ports include the continuous, real-time tracking of vessel movements in tight coordination with shipping lines and agents, and the provision of additional storage space to accommodate potential cargo backups or delays.

Furthermore, priority handling and close monitoring of refrigerated and perishable consignments are in place to minimize hardships faced by exporters.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with maritime stakeholders and other government ministries, ensuring the continued safety of India's maritime interests, its seafarers, and its global logistics networks.