Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Launches 'Seafarer-First' Initiative

 Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Launches 'Seafarer-First' Initiative

• Launched by: Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.[MoPSW]
• Context: Safeguard Indian seafarers in Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman amid West Asia tensions. Follows attacks on MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa in Strait of Hormuz - affected 30 Indian seafarers out of 46 crew.
• Measures:
  • Real-time vessel-by-vessel operational dashboard by Directorate General of Shipping [DGS] to monitor every Indian seafarer irrespective of flag.
  • Dedicated liaison officers.
  • Coordination with Indian Missions in Iran, Oman, UAE.
  • Coordination with MEA, Indian Navy, DGS.
• Support: Medical evacuation, repatriation, compensation, welfare assistance, 24x7 grievance system for families.
• UPSC Relevance: GS2 - Welfare of Indian Diaspora, GS3 - Maritime Security, Strait of Hormuz chokepoint.
• Prelims: Strait of Hormuz connects Persian Gulf to Gulf of Oman, 20% world oil passes.