Answer By law4u team
India's policy on foreign naval ships visiting its ports is shaped by a combination of national security considerations, diplomatic protocols, and international maritime regulations. While India welcomes foreign naval vessels for goodwill visits, joint exercises, and diplomatic engagements, it maintains strict oversight to safeguard its maritime interests and ensure compliance with international norms.
Regulatory Framework Governing Foreign Naval Ship Visits
Merchant Shipping Act, 1958
Under Section 411 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, the Indian government has the authority to regulate the entry of foreign ships into Indian ports. This includes the power to deny entry to ships from countries with which India has strained relations, as seen in the recent ban on Pakistani ships following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Port State Control Inspections
India conducts Port State Control (PSC) inspections on foreign-flagged vessels visiting its ports to ensure compliance with international maritime safety and environmental standards. These inspections are in line with India's obligations under the Indian Ocean Memorandum of Understanding (IOMOU).
CCTV Regulations for Foreign Vessels
As of February 2025, India has mandated the installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems on foreign-flagged vessels operating under Special Period Licenses (SPL) in Indian coastal waters. This measure aims to enhance security and monitor activities within Indian ports.
Diplomatic Protocols for Port Visits
Foreign naval ships are required to notify Indian consular authorities of their intended arrival, including details such as date, time, and duration of the visit. Ceremonial visits to Indian officials and coordination with local authorities are customary practices during such visits.
Recent Developments in Foreign Naval Ship Visits
Suspension of Pakistani Ship Visits
In May 2025, India suspended all maritime ties with Pakistan, including banning Pakistani-flagged ships from docking at Indian ports. This decision was a response to heightened tensions following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. theweek.in +2 businesstoday.in +2 reuters.com +2
Enhanced Maritime Cooperation with Friendly Nations
India continues to engage in maritime cooperation with allied nations. For instance, Indian naval ships have made port calls in countries like Mauritius and Kuwait, participating in joint exercises and enhancing bilateral defence relations. en.wikipedia.org
Example
Scenario:
An Australian naval ship is scheduled to visit Mumbai for a goodwill mission.
Steps to be Taken:
Notification: The Australian Navy must notify Indian consular authorities of the intended visit, providing details such as the ship's name, arrival date, and duration of stay. latestlaws.com
Inspection: Upon arrival, the ship will undergo a Port State Control inspection to ensure compliance with international maritime safety and environmental standards.
Ceremonial Visit: The senior officer of the visiting ship will pay a ceremonial visit to the Indian naval authorities, adhering to diplomatic protocols. latestlaws.com
Engagement Activities: During the stay, the ship's crew may participate in joint exercises, cultural exchanges, and other activities to strengthen bilateral ties.
Departure: Before departure, the ship will inform Indian authorities and ensure all security and procedural requirements are met.
