Advisory for Indian Seafarers in the Black Sea

Why in News? The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strong advisory warning Indian seafarers to carefully assess security risks before accepting jobs on commercial ships operating in the Black Sea and adjoining maritime areas due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Key Facts to Memorize (Prelims Focus)

1. Geopolitical Context:

• Region: Black Sea and adjoining maritime areas (especially Ukraine's port of Odesa).
• Reason for Volatility: Ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
• Threats: Increasing drone and missile attacks on commercial vessels.

2. Recent Incidents Involving Indian Seafarers:

• MV AGN Ragnar: Struck by a projectile at the Port of Odesa. Out of 4 Indian nationals on board, 2 are safe, and 2 are missing (search and rescue underway).
• MV Golden Leo (July 19): A Guinea-Bissau-flagged ship hit by projectiles. Led to the deaths of 10 seafarers, including 4 Indians.
• Note: Since April, 5 Indian seafarers have died in such incidents in the region.

3. Diplomatic Action by India:

• Following the MV Golden Leo incident, the MEA summoned the chargé d'affaires of the Russian Embassy in India.

4. Government Advisory Guidelines:

• Seafarers must obtain comprehensive information from employers regarding the vessel’s route, ports of call, and security arrangements.
• Terms of employment must include provisions for medical care, evacuation, repatriation, and compensation.
• Follow advisories issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (specifically referencing the July 23 advisory).

Probable Prelims Questions (MCQs)

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent MEA advisory to Indian seafarers:

1. The advisory warns against taking jobs on commercial ships operating in the Red Sea due to Houthi attacks.
2. The MEA recently summoned the chargé d'affaires of the Russian Embassy in India following the death of Indian seafarers on the MV Golden Leo.
3. The Directorate General of Maritime Administration is the nodal agency issuing advisories for seafarers in India. Which of the statements given above are correct? A) 1 and 2 only B) 2 and 3 only C) 1 and 3 only D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B (2 and 3 only)

Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. The advisory is for the Black Sea and adjoining maritime areas due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, not the Red Sea/Houthi attacks.

Q2. The MV AGN Ragnar, which was recently struck by a projectile resulting in missing Indian seafarers, was hit at which port? A) Port of Novorossiysk B) Port of Odesa C) Port of Sevastopol D) Port of Constanta

Answer: B

Mains Preparation (Descriptive Focus)

Probable Question: "The safety of Indian seafarers in conflict zones poses a significant diplomatic and humanitarian challenge for India. Discuss the recent steps taken by the Indian government to safeguard its nationals working in volatile maritime regions like the Black Sea."