NEW DELHI : In response to the recent resurgence of piracy incidents in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off the Horn of Africa, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), Government of India, has issued DGMA Circular No. 40 of 2026, directing Indian maritime stakeholders to adopt heightened security measures while operating in these high-risk waters.
The advisory is applicable to all Indian-flagged vessels as well as foreign-flagged ships carrying Indian seafarers, with the objective of safeguarding lives, ensuring the security of ships and cargo, and maintaining uninterrupted maritime trade through one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors.
The DGMA has advised all shipowners, ship operators, Masters, Company Security Officers (CSOs), and Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) agencies to exercise enhanced vigilance and strictly comply with internationally recognised anti-piracy procedures.
As part of the advisory, vessels transiting the High-Risk Area (HRA) have been instructed to:
Strictly implement the Best Management Practices (BMP 5) for protection against piracy.
Maintain a continuous and effective lookout while ensuring that crew members are secured in the Citadel in the event of a piracy attack.
Conduct comprehensive ship security risk assessments before entering the High-Risk Area.
Carry out regular anti-piracy drills and security briefings to ensure crew preparedness.
Register vessel transits with the appropriate maritime security reporting centres.
Continuously monitor security advisories issued by the DGMA, Indian Navy, International Maritime Organization (IMO), United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), and Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA).
The Gulf of Aden and adjoining waters remain a strategically important international shipping route connecting Asia, Europe and the Middle East. The recent increase in piracy-related incidents has prompted maritime administrations worldwide to reinforce security protocols and encourage strict adherence to internationally accepted best practices.
The DGMA has reiterated that continuous vigilance, proactive risk assessment, and close coordination with naval and maritime security agencies are essential to mitigating piracy threats and ensuring the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers operating in the region.
The circular underscores India’s continued commitment to maritime safety and security while supporting the uninterrupted movement of global trade through critical sea lanes.
For emergency assistance, contact:
MMDAC (DG Comm Centre): dgcommcentre-dgs@nic.in | +91 86575 49760 | +91 22 22613606 | +91 86575 49752
IFC-IOR: ifc-ior.gurugram@navy.gov.in | +91 124 2208385
