NEW DELHI: Sukhmeet Singh and Dhiraj Kumar Agrawal have sailed across the world, but their toughest challenge as merchant navy captains came in the volatile Strait of Hormuz—typically a key oil and gas route, now threatened by drones, missiles, and anti-ship mines. Their mission was clear: steer two large Indian LPG tankers through a conflict-hit stretch to ensure uninterrupted cooking gas supplies back home.
Relying on patience and experience, both captains completed the journey successfully. The Sukhmeet-led Shivalik reached Mundra port on Monday, while the Dhiraj-commanded Nanda Devi docked at Kandla port’s Vandinar facility early Tuesday. The vessels had been stranded for over a week west of Hormuz due to intense military activity.
Carrying more than 92,000 tonnes of LPG, the ships—Shivalik with 27 crew members and Nanda Devi with 30—finally reached Indian shores safely. Shipping minister Sarbananda Sonowal praised the crews during a virtual interaction, calling seafarers “unsung heroes of global trade.” He commended their calmness, vigilance, and professionalism under pressure, noting their sacrifice in staying away from families to deliver essential cargo.
Officials who met the crews onboard said the main challenge was the prolonged wait amid uncertainty. Despite this, the sailors—many experienced in navigating the strait—remain ready for future voyages.
Shipping secretary Vijay Kumar highlighted their dedication, saying they continued their duties in one of the world’s most critical maritime choke points, even as vessel traffic declined due to attacks.
Sukhmeet, from Adampur in Punjab, had reportedly been urged by his family to step away from the assignment. However, he chose to stay, saying he would return only after completing his responsibility of delivering the vital cargo. Dhiraj, from Kantabanji in Odisha’s Balangir district, also brought relief to his family once Nanda Devi crossed the strait safely.
Special secretary Rajesh Kumar Sinha said the ministry’s interaction aimed to thank and honour the sailors for their exceptional service. “They were in uniform, healthy, and cheerful,” he noted.
India has around 3.2 lakh seafarers, with nearly 90% working on foreign-flagged vessels—reflecting their global reputation and expertise.
