New Delhi, June 12: The Union Government has reiterated its commitment to the security of Indian citizens working globally, stepping up diplomatic communication after maritime safety incidents occurred off the Oman coast over a four-day period. The Ministry of External Affairs registered its perspective with the US Chargé d’Affaires, Jason Meeks, marking the second such high-level diplomatic meeting this week to ensure the protection of civilian mariners.
The development follows an inter-ministerial briefing where the administration expressed deep sadness over the confirmed passing of three Indian seafarers who were initially reported missing at sea. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the administration attaches the highest importance to the well-being of the seafaring community and has communicated its distinct position regarding the necessity of maintaining safe international shipping lanes.
The government clarified the status of the vessels involved, noting they were entirely foreign-flagged and operated under overseas ownership. According to official data, the merchant vessels included two Palau-flagged oil tankers, the Marivex and the Settebello, alongside the Guinea-Bissau-flagged vessel, Jalveer. Administrative findings revealed that the operations were tied to international regulatory compliance, with two of the merchant ships linked to active sanctions from the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.
Seafarer Footprint in the Region
| Category | Personnel Strength | Location / Vessel Type |
| Total Regional Workforce | Over 18,000 seafarers | Across the wider Gulf Zone |
| Indian-Flagged Crew | 562 personnel | Deployed on 13 active vessels |
| Western Corridor | 329 personnel | Stationed west of the Strait of Hormuz |
| Eastern Corridor | 233 personnel | Navigating the Gulf of Oman |
Immediate rescue and support frameworks have been activated by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to manage the situation on the ground. Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal declared that all remaining 25 crew members of the Settebello—comprising multiple nationalities including 21 Indian citizens—have been securely evacuated. Safety procedures are also underway to successfully disembark the crew of the Jalveer.
The government has ensured immediate welfare support for the grieving families through institutional mechanisms. The Seamen Welfare Fund Society has been directed to promptly release an ex gratia relief payment of Rs 10 lakh to the kin of each deceased sailor, ensuring substantial financial backing while formal consular procedures are finalized.
