An Indian seafarer has gone missing after a Panama-flagged oil tanker was attacked off the coast of Oman, just a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed a BRICS network to provide emergency support to seafarers in distress.
The incident took place on Sunday, September 13, when the tanker MT El Gaia came under attack in international waters off Oman. There were 14 Indian crew members on board, of whom 13 have been rescued, while one Indian seafarer remains missing. Search and rescue operations are underway.
India has condemned the attack and described it as "unacceptable". The Ministry of External Affairs said it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the relevant authorities to locate the missing Indian national.
The latest incident comes shortly after PM Modi, while addressing the BRICS Leaders' Summit in New Delhi, proposed the creation of a 'Seafarers' Emergency Support Network' among BRICS countries.
What did PM Modi propose?
Modi said seafarers often find themselves without adequate support during difficult situations and suggested connecting maritime authorities and missions of BRICS countries through an emergency support network.
The proposed network would provide assistance during emergencies, including distress alerts, medical support, communication with families and evacuation assistance.
The Prime Minister had also stressed the importance of secure sea lanes and the safety of seafarers while addressing the BRICS Business Forum.
"Global trade can move forward only when sea lanes are secure, supply routes remain open, and seafarers are safe," Modi said, reiterating India's support for freedom of navigation and the safety of maritime workers.
Indian seafarers face growing risks
The latest attack highlights the risks faced by Indian seafarers amid the continuing conflict and instability in West Asia.
India has more than 300,000 seafarers working across global shipping fleets. The government has already issued several advisories restricting or discouraging the deployment of Indian seafarers on vessels travelling through high-risk areas, including the Strait of Hormuz.
The government has also established a real-time reporting, tracking and monitoring mechanism for vessels and seafarers operating in the Gulf region. A 24-hour control room and emergency communication channels are in place to coordinate assistance during incidents.
India steps up maritime safety measures
The government has been coordinating with the Indian Navy, Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad and maritime authorities to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers.
The Directorate General of Shipping has also advised shipping companies and recruitment agencies to exercise heightened vigilance and follow security protocols while operating in conflict-affected waters.
The attack on MT El Gaia comes at a time when the safety of commercial shipping has emerged as a major concern amid rising tensions in the Gulf and disruption to key international shipping routes.
With one Indian seafarer still missing, authorities continue to coordinate search and rescue efforts while monitoring the broader security situation in the region.
