India is moving to establish its own protection and indemnity (P&I) capability by creating the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool, aimed at reducing reliance on overseas insurers and strengthening maritime self-sufficiency.

The new pool will provide liability cover for Indian-flagged vessels, including risks such as pollution, collisions, and crew claims-areas traditionally dominated by the International Group of P&I Clubs.

The initiative reflects a broader strategic push to build resilience across the maritime value chain, particularly at a time when geopolitical tensions and sanctions have exposed vulnerabilities linked to foreign insurance providers.

India’s shipping sector has expanded steadily in recent years, supported by government ambitions to increase tonnage under the national flag and develop its role as a global maritime hub. However, most Indian owners still depend on international P&I clubs for critical insurance, leaving them exposed to external policy shifts.