On 13 June 2026, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) issued a security advisory directing Indian seafarers to maintain the highest vigilance amid escalating security risks in the Gulf region, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman.
Background:
The advisory was issued following a series of serious incidents involving vessels such as MT Marivex, MT Settebello, and MV Jalveer, highlighting the growing risks to commercial shipping and the vulnerability of Indian seafarers in the region.
Given the strategic importance of the Gulf, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil and trade route, and the prevailing instability has significant implications for international maritime operations. In response, Indian authorities have intensified monitoring in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Navy, and diplomatic missions abroad.
Issued in continuation of DGS Circular 9 of 2026, the advisory reflects the escalating security situation and reiterates that all seafarers and maritime stakeholders, including RPSL (Recruitment and Placement Service Licence) companies, must exercise the highest degree of vigilance in the conflict zone.
Key highlights of the Advisory for Seafarers:
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Heightened Security Vigilance: The circular places strong emphasis on maintaining the highest degree of vigilance and caution. Masters of vessels have been directed to:
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Maintain constant security awareness
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Monitor navigational warnings and advisories
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Implement ship security procedures rigorously
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The advisory clearly instructs RPSL companies and shipping companies to:
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Restrict deployment of Indian seafarers to conflict zones until further notice
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Avoid sending crew to high-risk areas except in emergency situations
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Allow only emergency crew changes, subject to the consent of seafarers
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Monitoring and Reporting: A robust monitoring system has been mandated:
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All stakeholders must continuously track advisories issued by DGS, MEA, and other authorities
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Any incident involving Indian seafarers must be immediately reported to the DG Communication Centre and Crew Branch
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Avoid circulating fake news/videos: Recognising the role of misinformation in crisis situations, the advisory specifically warns against:
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Circulating unverified news or videos
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Spreading rumours via social media
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Stakeholders are urged to rely only on official Government sources.
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To ensure rapid response:
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MMDAC (DG Comm Centre) for 24×7 emergency assistance
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Dedicated helplines and communication channels have been provided for seafarers in distress
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The advisory has been classified as ‘Most Urgent’, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Also Read: Modern Maritime Governance takes shape under Merchant Shipping Act, 2025
[DGS Advisory for Seafarers, issued on 13- 6-2026]
