The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has lifted its earlier restrictions on Indian ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, clarifying that vessel operations and deployment of Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf region may continue — provided all applicable security protocols are strictly observed. The decision was communicated through a DGS circular issued on 26 June.

What the Circular Says

The DGS circular explicitly states: 'There is no restriction for Indian ship owners/managers/RPSL agencies to continue the operation of ships and deployment of Indian seafarers in and out of the Persian Gulf region by following the security protocols of the Coastal States and security agencies.' The directive effectively restores normal operational status for Indian maritime stakeholders in the region.

Despite the lifting of restrictions, the DGS has strongly advised all masters, ship owners, ship managers, operators, and RPSL companies to maintain heightened caution while navigating the Gulf.

Security Protocols Still in Force

Masters of vessels operating in or transiting through the Gulf region — including the Strait of Hormuz and adjoining waters — have been directed to maintain heightened security awareness, closely monitor navigational warnings, and implement all applicable ship security measures and company security procedures. The DGS has also instructed stakeholders to continuously track advisories from the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions abroad, and other competent authorities.

Any incident involving Indian seafarers must be promptly reported to the DG Communication Centre and Crew Branch, the circular noted.

IMO Coordination and Stranded Seafarers

The DGS circular also referenced a parallel international effort: the International Maritime Organization (IMO), in coordination with Coastal States and industry partners, has initiated a coordinated evacuation mechanism for stranded seafarers involving the IMO, UKMTO, and the MICA Center. The DGS said it is closely monitoring the evolving situation in coordination with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Navy, and Indian Missions abroad.

Warning Against Misinformation

In a notable addition, the DGS has strongly advised all stakeholders to verify the authenticity of any news reports, videos, or other material relating to security incidents aboard ships through official government sources only. Stakeholders have been cautioned against circulating unverified news, social media posts, or fake videos — a signal that misinformation around Gulf shipping incidents has been a concern during the period of heightened tensions.

What This Means for Indian Shipping

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, through which a significant share of global oil and LNG shipments pass. Indian shipping interests — both in terms of cargo vessels and seafarer employment — are directly exposed to any disruption in the corridor. The DGS's decision to lift restrictions while maintaining a robust advisory framework reflects a calibrated approach: restoring commercial normalcy without understating the residual security risk. How the situation evolves in the coming days will determine whether the current advisory posture holds.