Union Minister for Ports Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday lauded the courage and professionalism of Indian seafarers aboard LPG carriers Shivalik and Nanda Devi, whose successful voyage ensured uninterrupted energy supplies to the country amid heightened tensions in West Asia.
The Minister interacted with the crew members of the two Indian flagged vessels through a video conference, expressing the nation’s gratitude for their role in safely transporting critical LPG cargo through high risk maritime zones.
The interaction was attended by Vijay Kumar, Secretary Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways; Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping; B K Tyagi, Chairman and Managing Director Shipping Corporation of India; Captain Sukhmeet Singh and crew of Shivalik; and Captain Dhiraj Kumar Agrawal along with the crew of Nanda Devi.
Addressing the crew, Sarbananda Sonowal described the engagement as a heartfelt expression of national appreciation, acknowledging the challenges faced by the seafarers who remained stationed in a high risk maritime zone for nearly two weeks before completing their journey to India.
He said the crews demonstrated exceptional calmness, vigilance and professionalism under demanding conditions, ensuring the safe passage of vital LPG cargo and reinforcing India’s energy security at a critical time.
The two vessels, MT Shivalik and MT Nanda Devi, carrying approximately 92712 metric tonnes of LPG, successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz on March 13 and reached Indian ports on March 16 and 17. Shivalik arrived at Mundra Port while Nanda Devi reached Kandla Port, where cargo discharge operations are underway to facilitate onward distribution.
The Minister emphasised that the successful navigation of the vessels through a sensitive maritime corridor reflects the strength and resilience of India’s maritime workforce. He described seafarers as the unsung heroes of global trade, noting that their efforts ensure the seamless movement of essential commodities across international supply chains.
Sarbananda Sonowal also highlighted the broader significance of the operation, stating that the safe arrival of the LPG cargo has contributed to maintaining stability in domestic energy supply chains during a period of geopolitical uncertainty.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the maritime sector, enhancing safety standards and ensuring dignity and global recognition for Indian seafarers. He also acknowledged the contribution of seafarers’ families, calling them an essential pillar supporting those working in challenging offshore conditions.
Congratulating the masters, officers and crew members of both vessels, the Minister said their achievement stands as a benchmark of professionalism and dedication, and extended his best wishes for their future voyages.
The Directorate General of Shipping continues to closely monitor the evolving situation in coordination with ship owners, Recruitment and Placement Service License agencies and Indian diplomatic missions in the region to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels.
The Government has also taken measures to ensure smooth maritime operations and minimise disruptions to trade. Ports across the country have been directed to prioritise berthing of LPG carriers to enable timely discharge of cargo and maintain continuity in supply.
Relief measures including concessions in anchorage, berth hire and storage charges are being extended where necessary to support shipping operations. Over the past few days, six LPG vessels have been received at major Indian ports, indicating sustained logistical activity despite regional uncertainties.
Ports are also providing safe anchorage facilities for vessels carrying cargo bound for the Gulf region that are currently unable to transit due to prevailing conditions, ensuring that maritime trade flows remain resilient.
Officials stated that continuous coordination is being maintained between the Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad, shipping companies and logistics stakeholders to safeguard maritime operations and support Indian nationals working in the sector.
The Government reiterated that it remains vigilant and committed to ensuring both the welfare of Indian seafarers and the stability of critical supply chains, particularly in the energy sector, as developments continue to unfold in West Asia.
