Shipping min Sonowal says no Indian seafarer should be caught in crossfire
Indian Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has ordered officials to prioritize the safety of Indian seafarers amid rising geopolitical tensions in global shipping lanes. The directive follows reports of Indian crew members being trapped in conflict zones, such as a vessel currently docked in Ukraine.
Why it matters
The safety of merchant mariners is becoming a critical geopolitical issue as global trade routes face increased risks from regional conflicts and drone warfare.
NEW DELHI: Amid escalating geopolitical tensions affecting key global shipping routes and posing risks to Indian sailors, shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal Tuesday directed officials to ensure “no Indian seafarer finds himself caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflict”.Safety of Indian mariners remains govt’s top priority, he said while chairing a high-level review meeting on the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers serving aboard merchant vessels in conflict-sensitive regions. The meeting was attended by officials from different departments and heads of Indian missions in Oman, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia and Ukraine.“No Indian seafarer should find himself caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflict.
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