SEAFARER SAFETY
India miffed over 'Ukrainian' drone strike on oil tanker
Aa Ukrainian drone assault targeted the Liberian-flagged Aframax Rio, carrying Indian citizens off the coast of Sochi. Fortunately, all 23 crew members were rescued after the fire broke out. India's Ministry of External Affairs has called for open dialogue to safeguard seafarers and ensure the freedom of navigation, stressing the critical need to restore international maritime safety and trade stability.
A global job spinner for Indians is now turning into a death trap
India has emerged as the world’s second-largest supplier of seafarers, but its growing presence aboard global merchant ships has also left more Indians exposed to wars, piracy and unsafe working conditions. Recent attacks in the Black Sea and off Oman have put the spotlight on how India is trying to protect its maritime workforce through tighter regulation, repatriation efforts, real-time tracking and international cooperation.
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.
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.
All three Indians safe after commercial vessel attacked in Black Sea; 2 foreign nationals killed
A commercial vessel named MV ROYAD MAMMADOV was attacked in the Black Sea, resulting in casualties. Three Indian nationals were among the crew members, with one sustaining injuries during the incident. The Indian Embassy in Romania confirmed the safety of the Indian nationals and is providing necessary support. Indian Ambassador Manoj Mohapatra confirmed their condition after visiting them at the hospital.
4,500+ Indian seafarers in Persian Gulf under close watch amid rising maritime threats: MEA
India is currently overseeing the well-being of more than 4,500 Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf. Of this number, 163 seafarers are on board 12 commercial vessels, which include both Indian and foreign ships. The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating with local stakeholders to ensure their safety and welfare. Recent maritime threats have raised international concerns regarding shipping safety in the region.
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DGMA extends validity of seafarer competency certificates amidst continuing Gulf crisis
This decision comes due to continued maritime security issues in West Asia and surrounding regions. Indian seafarers on vessels may face issues with certificate renewal or revalidation as a result of these challenges. The extension applies to various statutory certificates held by Indian seafarers working onboard.
Will exercise right to defend against terrorism: India at UN
India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar emphasized the nation's right to defend itself against terrorism. He asserted that friendship cannot coexist with terrorism and condemned state-sponsored actions. Jaishankar highlighted the unacceptable attacks on commercial vessels, which have resulted in the loss of Indian seafarers. He reiterated the need for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace in West Asia.
'A terrorist country is asking me that question, come on': Jaishankar's blunt retort to Pakistani reporter at UN briefing in New York
S Jaishankar firmly responded to a heckling question from a Pakistani reporter at a press conference. The event was held during the High Level Week at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. India continues to emphasize Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism and urges credible actions against it. Recent attacks, including the Pahalgam terror attack, were acknowledged internationally for their severity.
'Pakistan spreads lies on the world forum': Defence expert Anil Gaur backs Jaishankar's response to Pak reporter
Defence expert Captain Anil Gaur supported Jaishankar's condemnation of Pakistan's actions concerning terrorism. Gaur highlighted Pakistan's admission of needing to control its terrorists during a UN address. Jaishankar firmly responded to a Pakistani reporter at a press conference regarding terrorism queries. India's actions against cross-border terrorism have garnered international recognition and resulted in increased scrutiny on Pakistan.
Jaishankar meets Russia, Iran foreign ministers at UNGA days after Trump signs sanctions law
During the UN General Assembly, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conferred with officials from Russia and Iran, highlighting vital areas like bilateral ties, BRICS collaboration, and the Gulf conflict. He reaffirmed India's focus on energy security in light of recent US sanctions. Furthermore, Jaishankar participated in discussions with the Gulf Cooperation Council to fortify partnerships, alongside co-chairing a dialogue centered on the ramifications of artificial intelligence on maritime security.
India, GCC review cooperation, welcome launch of FTA negotiations at New York meeting
India and the Gulf Cooperation Council held a Troika Ministerial Meeting to review their Joint Action Plan. The meeting included discussions on regional and international issues, including the situation in West Asia. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar led the Indian delegation to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing trade, investment, and cultural ties.
Manipur CM announces financial aid for women street vendors at Seva Sankalp Abhiyan 2026
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh attended the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan event in Moirang. He announced a financial assistance scheme for women street vendors before Ningol Chakouba, 2026. The Chief Minister emphasized the negative impact of recent crises on the State's economy and revenue. Singh urged unity among communities to restore peace after the crisis period.
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.
EAM Jaishankar emphasizes Global South cooperation on challenges like energy, food security at UNGA
S Jaishankar emphasized the need for collaboration among Global South countries during a recent UN General Assembly meeting. He addressed challenges such as supply chain disruptions, energy security, and food security. The minister called for actions to improve agricultural supply chains and enhance industrial production capabilities. He also raised concerns regarding the influence of artificial intelligence on global cooperation.
Vladimir Putin sends message on PM Narendra Modi's birthday; highlights role in strengthening Russia-India ties
Russian President Vladimir Putin wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 76th birthday, praising his contribution to strengthening the India-Russia strategic partnership and calling their recent Delhi talks substantive and productive. Putin thanked Modi for his hospitality during the BRICS Summit visit, while both leaders discussed closer trade, energy, infrastructure, technology, defence and cooperation on regional and global issues.
BRICS' trade puzzle: Modi, Putin and Pezeshkian pitch three different fixes
The BRICS Business Forum saw leaders discuss expanding intra-bloc trade and economic resilience. Prime Minister Modi focused on removing trade barriers and India's stability. President Putin addressed countering Western economic pressure and sanctions. President Pezeshkian linked economic security to conflict and rebuilding Iran's economy. New trade data reveals a complex picture of the bloc's internal trade dynamics.
PM Modi, Iran's Pezeshkian hold first New Delhi talks since West Asia war; vow to expand bilateral ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New Delhi on Friday, reviewing the escalating West Asia conflict and India-Iran ties. The meeting, their second in less than two weeks, came amid fresh US measures against Iran, disruptions to oil supplies and concerns over navigation and civilian infrastructure.
Modi asks BRICS to remove top 10 trade barriers, pitches India as ‘economic bridge’ amid global uncertainty
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged BRICS members to identify and remove their top 10 trade barriers, saying India was building “economic bridges” as protectionism rises globally. Speaking at the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi, he also stressed secure maritime routes and seafarer safety for uninterrupted trade.
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.
At BRICS, PM Modi calls for replacing 'pyramid of privilege' with 'platform of partnership'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the Global South to become rule shapers in global governance. He advocated for transforming the existing pyramid of privilege into a platform of partnership. Modi proposed a 10-point roadmap for global governance reform under the BRICS framework. He also called for a Seafarers' Emergency Support Network to aid sailors. The summit addressed economic headwinds and geopolitical instability affecting developing nations.
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.
BRICS 2026: Hand-in-hand Modi, Pezeshkian talk Hormuz, Chabahar & ties
Prime Minister Modi met Iranian President Pezeshkian during the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. They discussed regional stability and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Trade ties and connectivity initiatives, including Chabahar Port, were also key discussion points. India reiterated its stance on resolving issues through dialogue and diplomacy. Both leaders appreciated cooperation on mutual interests in multilateral organizations.
BRICS 2026: PM Modi calls for top 10 trade barriers to be removed; says India is building ‘economic bridges’ to shield Global South
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged BRICS members to identify and remove their top 10 trade barriers as the grouping enters its third decade, saying India is building economic bridges as trade barriers rise globally. At the BRICS Business Forum, Modi also positioned India as a source of growth, stability and global solutions.
Russian President Putin invites PM Modi for 24th India-Russia Summit, discuss bilateral ties, West Asia and Black Sea conflicts
Prime Minister Modi and President Putin discussed bilateral ties and future cooperation. President Putin invited Prime Minister Modi to Russia for the 24th Annual Summit. Both leaders shared perspectives on global conflicts and regional situations. They also reviewed progress in various sectors of bilateral cooperation. The Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia continues to grow.
In talks with Putin, Modi raises safety of Indians in Black Sea
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the safety of Indian seafarers in the Black Sea and India’s readiness to support peace efforts in the Ukraine conflict. The two leaders agreed to target $100 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2030 and deepen cooperation across defence, energy and other sectors.
Modi-Putin bilateral talks conclude in Delhi, duo share a car ride to INNOPROM exhibition
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin held bilateral talks in New Delhi. They then shared a car to visit the INNOPROM Exhibition together. President Putin arrived for a three-day visit centered around the BRICS Summit. This meeting continues a pattern of leader-level engagement between the two nations. India and Russia describe their ties as a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership."
From G7 to D10: Why the world's democracies should finally name their coalition
Global summits highlight a multipolar world order and competing national interests. Industrial democracies informally assemble, behaving like a D10 coalition. This grouping commands significant global GDP and economic influence. India's consistent participation makes it indispensable to these discussions. The time has arrived for this informal arrangement to gain formal recognition.
Sarbananda Sonowal announces maritime education initiatives and new Mercantile Marine Department in Guwahati
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced new maritime education initiatives for Northeast India. A Mercantile Marine Department will be established in Guwahati for seafarer certification services. Cotton University and NINI Patna will explore collaboration on maritime studies programs. These initiatives aim to boost youth participation in the growing maritime sector. The announcements reflect a broader focus on the Northeast's development.
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