MARITIME COMMERCE SAFETY
Quad ministers pledge over $85 million for AI access, flag economic coercion and supply chain risks
Quad foreign ministers meeting in Atlanta reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, focusing on economic security, resilient supply chains and trusted infrastructure. They announced plans to provide over $85 million in technical and financial assistance for access to trusted super intelligence (SI), while pledging action against cyber scams and transnational criminal networks.
India-Iran NSAs hold conversation amid fresh incidents in Hormuz Strait; Saudi situation
India and Iran's National Security Advisers exchanged views on regional tensions following Houthi attacks and maritime security concerns. They discussed the recent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz that affected Indian seafarers. The conversation included topics like the ongoing situation in Afghanistan and connectivity projects. The Indian government emphasized the importance of the safety of its nationals and maritime commerce.
Oman tanker attack: Union seeks 'urgent status update' on two Indian seafarers missing after drone strike
Two Indian seafarers, Bir Bahadur Yadav and Amit Singh, are missing following a recent drone attack. The drone strike on MT Petro Dolphin occurred on October 11 while it was anchored near Oman. The Forward Seamen's Union of India urged authorities for updates and protection of merchant sailors in the region. The Indian Embassy in Oman is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating with relevant authorities.
MEA condemns attacks on two vessels in Hormuz region, calls for de-escalation
The Ministry of External Affairs condemned drone attacks on two commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. MT Petro Dolphin and MT Valthera were involved in separate incidents, leaving two Indian seafarers missing. Search-and-rescue operations for the missing personnel are actively being coordinated by authorities in Oman. Concerns over maritime security in the region have been raised, following several attacks on vessels in recent days.
Two Indians missing, 9 rescued as drone attacks oil tanker off Oman coast
A drone attack occurred on the tanker MT Petro Dolphin, resulting in two Indian seafarers missing. Nine other crew members were rescued and confirmed safe after the incident. The local Coast Guard is conducting ongoing search and rescue operations in Sohar Anchorage. Additionally, another tanker, M/T Valthera, was struck by an unknown projectile but all crew members were unharmed.
23 Indian seafarers reported safe after Ukrainian drone attack sets fire to oil tanker off Russian coast
A Liberian-flagged oil tanker carrying an Indian crew caught fire off Russia's Black Sea coast following a Ukrainian drone attack, with all 23 crew members safely rescued. India condemned ongoing maritime attacks, urging dialogue and diplomacy to protect global commerce and seafarers.
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MEA condemns Black Sea attack that killed two seafarers, expresses grave concern over strikes on commercial shipping
India has condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MV ROYAD MAMMADOV that resulted in two fatalities. All three Indian nationals aboard the ship have been reported safe, with one receiving medical attention. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the need for dialogue to resolve ongoing conflicts affecting commercial shipping. Indian authorities are in close contact with Romanian officials to support the injured crew members.

At UNGA, India launches maritime safety group to protect ships and seafarers
India and Liberia have joined forces to establish a 'Group of Friends' dedicated to improving the safety of shipping and seafarers. This timely initiative comes in response to a worrying rise in maritime attacks, particularly in high-risk areas such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab-el-Mandeb. During the 81st UN General Assembly, External Affairs Minister S.

BRICS formed to end US sanctions, break totalitarianism: Iranian President Pezeshkian
In an exclusive interview with India Today on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Pezeshkian emphasised that BRICS aims to break the "totalitarianism" of the United States, positioning the bloc as a direct challenge to Washington's ability to impose economic restrictions on nations at its own discretion.

Cochin Shipyard Ltd and Drydocks World form joint venture to strengthen India’s ship repair industry
Drydocks World and Cochin Shipyard Limited have formed a joint venture. This partnership will operate and expand the International Ship Repair Facility in Cochin. The collaboration aims to enhance India's ship repair capabilities and create new opportunities. This venture combines global expertise with strong domestic experience. It will strengthen Cochin's position as a key maritime services hub.

BRICS 2026: PM Modi sits down with Putin, talks $100 bn trade by 2030; Plan to deepen defence, energy, nuclear ties
India and Russia agreed to expand industrial collaboration across manufacturing and critical minerals. They aim to reach a $100 billion bilateral trade target by the year 2030. Defence and energy cooperation progress was also reviewed by the two leaders. Discussions included boosting Make in India and reducing the trade gap. Both nations are also exploring joint energy projects and civil nuclear cooperation.

Freedom of navigation and respect for international law should remain pivotal priorities: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised secure sea lanes and maritime trade for South Asia. He met Sri Lankan President Dissanayake, reaffirming joint regional security efforts. Indian and Sri Lankan ports can drive shared economic growth and prosperity. Both nations are well positioned to safeguard peace and stability across the Indian Ocean. They will work together to address fisheries disputes and enhance maritime cooperation.

Shipping nations warn global trade is fracturing — and everyone pays
The Strait of Hormuz, which Iran effectively shuttered after the US and Israel launched strikes against it in February, is a stark example of the global consequences of a regional conflict.

India stresses security of seafarers as "high priority" after Indian vessel sinks off Yemen; calls for safe, unimpeded passage
India's External Affairs Ministry stressed seafarer safety following a Red Sea vessel sinking. All thirteen Indian nationals aboard were successfully rescued by Yemeni authorities. The government is coordinating with shipping ministries and regional maritime authorities. India continues to advocate for safe and unimpeded global commerce navigation. This incident highlights ongoing maritime security concerns in vital international waterways.

India summons Ukraine envoy after Black Sea drone strike kills seafarer
India summoned Ukraine's ambassador after a drone attack killed an Indian national. The ministry condemned attacks on merchant shipping, citing threats to global commerce. India also previously summoned Russia's envoy over a separate deadly attack. An advisory urges Indian nationals to assess security risks before working on Black Sea vessels. The situation remains volatile due to the ongoing conflict and increased attacks.

PM Modi raised issue of safety of India sailors during recent meet with Trump: Govt to Lok Sabha
Prime Minister Modi raised Indian maritime worker safety with President Trump. He also highlighted this issue at the G7 Summit Outreach Session. The ongoing West Asia conflict disrupted global maritime trade and caused seafarer losses. Both leaders reaffirmed commitment to strengthening the India-US partnership. They also welcomed progress in defense, technology, energy, and trade.

Indian seafarer killed in Black Sea attack on commercial vessel; MEA condemns strike
One Indian national died after a commercial vessel was attacked in the Black Sea. Two other Indian crew members aboard the MV Omorfi are reported to be safe. The vessel was transiting reported Russian territorial waters when the incident occurred on July eighteenth. India condemned the attack, citing threats to civilian lives and global maritime trade. The Ministry of External Affairs urged adherence to international obligations for safe navigation.

Parliamentary panel to hear views of Shipping Ministry on impact of West Asia crisis on India's maritime trade
A parliamentary committee will meet to discuss the West Asia crisis. The impact on India's maritime trade, shipping infrastructure, and seafarer safety will be examined. Ministries of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, External Affairs, Commerce, and Petroleum will attend. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's strong ties in the Gulf.

Safe, unimpeded maritime passage through Strait of Hormuz should be restored at the earliest: India at UNSC
India has called for immediate restoration of safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The nation expressed deep concern over the safety of its seafarers and the impact of waterway disruptions on global trade. Recent incidents have tragically claimed Indian lives. India emphasizes that freedom of navigation and global commerce must be respected.

Lok Sabha passes Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill
The Lok Sabha has passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, aimed at modernizing the legal framework for maritime commerce. Additionally, the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, was introduced to enhance port management and development, address pollution control, and ensure compliance with global maritime standards.

Vice President Dhankar calls for deeper cooperation among nations in maritime domain
The Vice President emphasised on the importance of protecting global supply chains, avoiding deeper regional tensions and strengthening maritime security.

PM Modi discusses return to peace, maritime safety with Netanyahu on phone
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to address concerns about the Red Sea situation affecting maritime traffic. Modi emphasized New Delhi's support for restoring peace and addressing humanitarian issues in the region. They discussed shared concerns about the safety of maritime traffic amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

India, ASEAN agree to deepen comprehensive strategic partnership with concrete actions
The two sides agreed to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership with concrete actions through practical implementation of the 'Plan of Action' to implement the ASEAN-India partnership for peace, progress and shared prosperity, said the statement.

India, ASEAN upgrade ties to comprehensive strategic partnership
India and the ASEAN decided to advance maritime cooperation, including in maritime security, countering piracy and armed robbery of ships, maritime safety and search and rescue operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster management and emergency response and relief, according to the joint statement issued after the meeting.

Maritime security an important dimension of India’s bilateral relations: Foreign Secretary Jaishankar
Observing that maritime safety and security is a multi-faceted issue, Jaishankar said challenges like maritime terrorism, smuggling are threats and challenges that impinge on national interests.

Delhi Declaration talks of new setups for maritime cooperation, terror fight
The leaders, on the occasion of 25 years of Indo-Asean partnership, further stressed that there can be no justification for acts of terror on any grounds whatsoever.

India urges for stability in Indian Ocean region
Beijing has also sought to transform its navy into a blue water force by acquiring capabilities which allow it to project power across oceans.

Nitin Gadkari to seek infra investment during his week-long US visit
Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari will invite investments in ports, ship building and coastal economics zones during his week long visit to the US.
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