India Raises the Bar: National Ports and Shipyards Move to MARSEC (Maritime Security) Level 2

Unknown Apr 02, 2026 3,050 Views

India has substantially increased security levels at all its ports, terminals, shipyards, and vessels, implementing an immediate transition from MARSEC Level 1 to MARSEC Level 2. This firm action is taken in light of heightened tensions with Pakistan and increasing fears of possible threats along...

Background and Context

The directive is in response to recent events and intelligence that signals heightened risks to Indian maritime interests, especially with the heightened tension with Pakistan.
The directive came from the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and has the support of advisories by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Security Level Upgrade

All Indian ports, terminals, shipyards, and vessels must immediately raise their security level from MARSEC Level 1 (normal security) to MARSEC Level 2 (increased security).
MARSEC Level 2 is imposed when there is an increased threat of a security breach, necessitating extra protective measures for a short duration.

Compulsory Security Measures

Increased surveillance and tighter access controls at all maritime installations.
Surprise blackout exercises and security drills to assess real-time readiness and enhance emergency response.
All Indian-flagged ships trading in and around the Indian subcontinent and adjacent countries shall adopt Level 2 security measures as per their Ship Security Plans (SSP).

Emphasis on Cybersecurity

All port CISOs have been instructed to scrutinize and harden IT and communications infrastructure to block or mitigate cyberattacks, keeping pace with the heightened risk of cyber events in maritime.

Stringent Compliance and Enforcement

The DGS has further stressed that the directive is of extreme importance and any default in compliance will be taken extremely seriously.
The directive has been circulated to all the important stakeholders, such as port authorities, shipping associations, and concerned government ministries for prompt implementation.

Official Statements

"This directive is being issued in the interest of national maritime security and has to be dealt with extreme urgency and priority. Strict compliance is mandatory, and any violation will be taken very seriously," said Captain Nitin Mukesh, Deputy Nautical Advisor-cum Senior DDG (Tech).

Sources: UNI India, Desh Gujarat, The Hindu Business Line

Stay Ahead – Explore Now! Chennai Meenakshi Hospital CEO Krishnamurthy Denies Resignation Rumors