In view of the heightened security situation in the Gulf region, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has directed, through DGMA Circular No. 36 of 2026, that ship owners, ship managers, and RPSL 

India has issued a directive to shipowners, ship managers, and recruitment agencies, instructing them to refrain from deploying Indian seafarers on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz until further notice. This decision comes amid rising security risks in the region following recent attacks on commercial shipping. It is intended to protect crew members working in a conflict-prone area of vital importance to global trade. According to the authorities, the situation has become more dangerous for both seafarers and merchant vessels.

The heightened security situation in the Gulf region

Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Shipping said in a statement: 'In view of the heightened security situation in the Gulf region, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has directed, through DGMA Circular No. 36 of 2026, that ship owners, ship managers and RPSL companies avoid deploying Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages through the Strait of Hormuz until further notice.'

Cautions from the maritime regulator

The maritime regulator has asked vessel masters operating in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waters to maintain strict security vigilance. Shipping companies have also been instructed to closely monitor navigational warnings and security advisories, and to adhere strictly to ship security procedures. This guidance has been issued in response to concerns about the impact of regional tensions on the safety of Indian crew members. The guidance also suggests that shipping firms may need to reconsider their crew plans for high-risk routes.

 A significant problem sourcing crew

In this context, LiveMint also emphasized that the order, stating that India's shipping regulator had directed companies to maintain heightened security vigilance across the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters. Adding a new dimension to the crisis, even if ships are willing to sail, operators now face a significant problem sourcing crew from one of the world’s largest seafaring nations.

Related: India's ship certification body adopts a stricter approach to sanctioned tankers.

An Indian seafarer is missing after a ship flying the Cyprus flag 

A seafarer from India is missing after a ship sailing under the Cyprus flag was targeted by Iran while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. His death was confirmed by his family on Tuesday. As many as 13 Indian sailors have died in the region since the US-Iran conflict began on 28 February.

The Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital shipping route, particularly for the transportation of energy and goods. Vessel operations, crew deployment and voyage planning can all be affected by any restrictions or cautions linked to the route. The advisory emphasises the growing importance of risk management in international shipping for Indian seafarers. It highlights how geopolitical developments can swiftly alter maritime labour and operational decisions.

#Strait of Hormuz #Indian seafarer # Cyprus flag # RPSL companies # shipowners #Directorate General of Shipping #India # Shipping companies