India’s Gulf Mission Runs 24/7 Helpline to Safeguard Indian Sailors

New Delhi, August 7 – In a statement to the press, the Ministry of External Affairs underscored that the safety of Indian seafarers and Indian‑flagged ships in the Gulf remains the apex concern for the government. The Indian diplomatic mission stationed in the region now operates a nonstop helpline, coordinated with local maritime bodies.

Ranveer Jaiswal, spokesperson for the ministry, explained that the mission maintains constant contact with the Shipping Ministry, Gulf maritime authorities and other stakeholders to guarantee that any call for help is met without delay.

The helpline, which is open around the clock, serves both Indian crew members and any Indian citizen requiring maritime assistance. It has been functional for several months and will stay operational as long as the need exists.

Jaiswal also reiterated India's commitment, alongside the Shipping Ministry and Gulf officials, to promote safe and uninterrupted navigation of global sea routes. He appealed to all involved parties to avoid targeting civilian infrastructure, particularly commercial vessels and their crews.

Maritime Transport Minister Sarbanand Sonowal told Parliament that 4,052 Indian sailors have been repatriated from the Gulf so far, and that 62 ships – comprising 23 Indian‑flagged and 39 foreign‑flagged vessels – have traversed the Hormuz Strait by August 3.

The Directorate General of Maritime Affairs (DGMA) constantly revises its advisory notes to enhance the protection of Indian crews amidst the ongoing Middle‑East tensions. Additional protective steps include a dedicated 24‑hour control room, live tracking of ships and crews, and a comprehensive status bulletin released every 24 hours covering vessel movements, crew safety and any incidents.