DG Shipping ensures safe repatriation of Indian Seafarers; Reviews Overseas Detention and Abandonment Cases

MUMBAI : Directorate General of Shipping, under the chairmanship of Additional Director General Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde, convened a high-level review meeting to examine recent cases involving Indian Seafarers facing detention and abandonment overseas.

The meeting reaffirmed DG Shipping’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the safety, dignity, and timely repatriation of every Indian seafarer serving across global waters.

Successful Repatriations
In the case of Valient Roar, eight Indian seafarers who had been under detention were successfully repatriated to India. Following their return, the seafarers visited DG Shipping headquarters for a comprehensive debriefing session. During the interaction, they shared the full sequence of events and challenges encountered during the period of detention, offering valuable insights into the operational and legal complexities involved in such situations.

Similarly, in the case of MT Kashi, seven Indian seafarers have been successfully repatriated through coordinated efforts undertaken by the Directorate.

In another case concerning Reem Akheelej, seven Indian seafarers who were detained onboard the vessel have also been safely brought back to India. Upon arrival, they were invited to DG Shipping for a structured debriefing session to document their experiences and assess any additional support requirements.

Strengthening Institutional Response
These cases underscore the critical importance of a coordinated institutional response, robust legal preparedness, and sustained engagement with international stakeholders to protect the rights and welfare of Indian seafarers. The debriefing exercises will contribute to strengthening policy measures, enhancing preventive mechanisms, and improving crisis-response protocols.

DG Shipping reiterated its resolute commitment to standing by Indian seafarers in distress, ensuring that timely intervention, diplomatic coordination, and legal support mechanisms remain firmly in place.

“We remain steadfast in our mission — because every seafarer matters.”