The Government of India has granted a 30-day interim extension permitting select Russian marine insurers to continue providing hull and Protection & Indemnity (P&I) cover for tankers discharging crude at Indian ports.
The decision, confirmed 21 February 2026, applies to vessels carrying Russian-origin cargoes into major Indian terminals including Jamnagar and Vadinar. The temporary measure prevents immediate entry restrictions that would have arisen from expiring insurance recognitions.
Indian authorities indicated the extension is intended as a transitional arrangement while longer-term compliance and certification mechanisms are reviewed.
Why It Matters for Maritime
Recognized P&I cover is a prerequisite for port entry and cargo discharge. Without insurance validation, vessels risk denial of pilotage, terminal refusal, or detention.
The interim relief stabilizes short-term crude flows into one of the world’s largest refining hubs and prevents congestion buildup in the Indian Ocean. However, the measure is temporary, and compliance exposure remains elevated for operators engaged in sanctioned trades.
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