Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region and restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian Navy has intensified maritime security operations to protect India-bound vessels. Warships deployed under Operation Sankalp are closely monitoring the region and escorting commercial ships to ensure safe passage through one of the world’s most critical energy routes.
Operation Sankalp Ensures Maritime Security
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea and carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. For India, the route is even more crucial, as nearly 80 percent of its energy imports pass through this chokepoint.
To safeguard shipping routes, the Indian Navy has deployed multiple warships in the Gulf region. One of the latest additions is INS Surat, a modern missile destroyer equipped with long-range surface-to-air missiles, torpedoes, and advanced combat systems capable of carrying out a wide range of maritime operations.
Several India-Bound Vessels Stranded Near Hormuz
Officials said that since the conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States began on February 28, several India-bound vessels have been stranded near the Strait of Hormuz. Around 22 ships carrying 611 seafarers remain on the western side of the strait, while four additional vessels are stuck on the eastern side.
Indian Warships Escort Key Energy Cargo Ships
Despite the tension, the Indian Navy has successfully escorted several ships carrying vital energy supplies to India. The LPG carrier Shivalik, transporting about 40,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas, safely reached Mundra Port in Gujarat. Part of the cargo was unloaded there while the remaining supply will be sent to Mangalore.
Another vessel, Jag Laadki, carrying about 81,000 tonnes of Murban crude oil from the UAE, is currently en route to India after departing safely from Fujairah. Meanwhile, the LPG tanker Nanda Devi, carrying around 46,000 metric tonnes of LPG, has arrived at Vadinar Port in Gujarat, where the cargo will be transferred to other ships before being sent to Tamil Nadu.
Naval Presence Across Strategic Sea Routes
In addition to the Gulf deployment, the Indian Navy continues its anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden, where three warships are currently stationed. Naval ships are also deployed across the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands region, Maldives, and Seychelles to safeguard maritime routes and Indian interests.
India Negotiating Ship Movements With Iran
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently clarified that India does not have a blanket arrangement with Iran for Indian ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Instead, each vessel’s transit is being negotiated individually. He noted that ongoing diplomatic engagement has already helped secure safe passage for several Indian-flagged tankers.
