Subscribe to Newsletter to get latest insights & analysis in your inbox. India has no immediate plans to send domestic-flagged vessels back to the Persian Gulf, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) said Monday. "We are yet to reach the stage where we start sending them (Indian flagged vessels) back," he said, highlighting how India's first objective is to ensure energy security.There are 18 Indian vessels in the Persian Gulf at this moment, with 485 Indian seafarers on board. "The centre is aware of India's dependence on shipping with 95 per cent foreign trade by volume, and about 70 per cent by value, dependent on the maritime sector. "To ensure that maritime operations continue uninterrupted, the government is working sincerely on a War Risk Pool," he added.

Source: Economic Times March 31, 2026 07:33 UTC