Blurb
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced the safe evacuation of over 4,048 Indian seafarers from West Asia, highlighting top-priority government efforts amid regional maritime conflicts.
MUMBAI
Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that over 4,048 Indian seafarers have been safely brought home following the escalating conflict in West Asia. This massive evacuation effort highlights the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens working in volatile maritime regions.
Addressing the media in Mumbai, Sonowal stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed the highest priority on the safety, security, and overall welfare of all Indian sailors. To ensure no one is left behind, the government has mandated that the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) maintain updated records on the precise location and health status of every Indian seafarer currently at sea.
He noted that the success of this mission is the result of close coordination between the Indian Navy, the Coast Guard, and various shipping management agencies. Furthermore, the minister emphasized that the government considers it a duty to support the families of these workers, providing them with necessary assistance during these challenging times.
This announcement follows a recent, high-stakes incident in the Red Sea where an Indian-flagged vessel, MSV Faize Noore Oliya, was targeted off the coast of Yemen. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the attack was a matter of extreme concern. Thankfully, all 13 Indian crew members, along with one other sailor, were rescued by the Yemeni Coast Guard and transported safely to the Port of Mokha.
The Ministry of External Affairs continues to operate 24/7 helplines through its regional missions to provide immediate support. Officials have strongly condemned the unprovoked attack on the defenseless vessel, reaffirming that the government will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the security of Indian vessels navigating international waters. As regional tensions persist, the Indian government remains fully committed to its mission of protecting its workforce abroad and bringing them safely home to their families.
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Prime Minister Modi has given us clear instructions to make the safety of our seafarers our top priority.
- Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Shipping Minister
