August 5: The Government of India informed Parliament that 60 India-bound merchant vessels safely transited the Strait of Hormuz during the recent Gulf crisis, while 3,972 Indian seafarers were successfully repatriated from the region amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said authorities maintained continuous coordination with shipping companies, Indian missions abroad, and the families of seafarers to ensure their safety throughout the crisis. Dedicated welfare counsellors were also made available wherever required.
In cases involving fatalities, the government said it facilitated immediate financial assistance, including the release of ₹10 lakh to eligible families under the Seafarers Welfare Fund.
To manage the emergency, a 24×7 crisis management system and the Directorate General of Shipping Communication Centre remained operational throughout the period, handling 15,771 phone calls and 36,499 emails from seafarers, their families, and other maritime stakeholders.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes, carrying a significant share of global energy trade. India relies heavily on the route for crude oil imports, making uninterrupted maritime movement critical for the country’s energy security.
