The Indian government has launched a comprehensive 'Seafarer-First' response to protect Indian crew members operating in conflict-affected waters of West Asia, including the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman. The initiative includes the creation of a real-time operational dashboard to track every Indian seafarer aboard vessels in these regions, according to livemint.com.
This new response mechanism was ordered amid recent attacks on merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The Centre has directed the appointment of dedicated liaison officers and established round-the-clock coordination to safeguard Indian seafarers. The operational dashboard will provide real-time updates on the location and status of Indian crew members, enhancing the government's ability to respond swiftly to any emergencies, as reported by livemint.com.
The launch of the 'Seafarer-First' response underscores the government's commitment to maritime security for Indian nationals working in high-risk areas. The move comes amid heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf region, which is a critical route for global trade and energy supplies. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to ensure the safety of Indian citizens abroad and complements existing maritime security frameworks.
The government’s operational dashboard for real-time tracking of Indian seafarers is now active, with continuous monitoring and coordination efforts underway. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has been involved in overseeing the implementation of this response, as detailed by livemint.com.