**Title: Indian Coast Guard Initiates Search and Rescue Operation Following Cargo Vessel Sinking in Bay of Bengal**
**Date: August 23, 2026**
The Indian Coast Guard has launched a significant search and rescue operation in the Bay of Bengal after the cargo vessel MV Ocean Winner sank off the eastern coast of India. The incident occurred while the ship was carrying iron ore from the port of Paradip to China.
According to the Coast Guard, the MV Ocean Winner issued a distress alert while located southeast of Paradip on Saturday, after which communication with the vessel was lost. The ship was reported to have a total crew of 24 members, comprising 20 Chinese nationals, three Myanmar nationals, and one Bangladeshi.
As part of the ongoing rescue efforts, the Coast Guard has successfully rescued two crew members who were found in life rafts. These survivors are currently receiving medical attention, although their ranks and identities are still being verified.
In response to the situation, Sarbananda Sonowal, India's Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, confirmed the ongoing coordination among various agencies involved in the rescue operation. He emphasized the urgency of the search efforts, stating, "All agencies are coordinating closely and actively doing search and rescue efforts." Sonowal also expressed his prayers for the safety of the remaining crew members still unaccounted for.
The cause of the sinking remains under investigation, and the Coast Guard has deployed three ships to conduct surface searches in the area where the vessel went down. The situation continues to develop as authorities work diligently to locate the missing crew members.
The MV Ocean Winner was registered under the Panama flag and was engaged in a routine cargo operation when the distress signal was sent. Further updates regarding the rescue operation and the condition of the survivors are expected as the search continues.