Under the chairmanship of Additional Director General Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde, the Directorate General of Shipping convened a high-level review meeting to examine recent cases involving Indian seafarers who faced detention and abandonment abroad. The meeting reaffirmed DG Shipping’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and timely repatriation of every Indian seafarer.
In the case of Valient Roar, eight Indian seafarers who had been under detention overseas have now been successfully repatriated to India. Following their return, the crew members visited the Directorate for a detailed debriefing session, where they shared the sequence of events and challenges encountered during their detention. Officials noted that the interaction offered valuable insights into the operational, legal, and humanitarian complexities typically associated with such cases.
Similarly, in the case of MT Kashi, seven Indian seafarers have been successfully repatriated after coordinated intervention and follow-up by authorities.
In another instance involving Reem Akheelej, seven Indian seafarers who were detained onboard the vessel have also been brought back to India. The crew members were called to DG Shipping headquarters for structured debriefing to formally document their experiences and assess any further support requirements, including legal, welfare, and employment-related assistance.
Officials stated that these cases underscore the critical importance of coordinated institutional response, legal preparedness, and sustained diplomatic engagement in protecting Indian seafarers worldwide.
Reiterating its commitment, DG Shipping emphasized that safeguarding the welfare and rights of Indian seafarers remains a top priority — affirming its resolute mission that every seafarer matters.