Visakhapatnam, Apr 3: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said the Indian Navy is ensuring the security of commercial ships and oil tankers, highlighting its critical role in protecting maritime trade routes amid emerging threats.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of INS Taragiri, Singh noted that nearly 95 per cent of India’s trade, including energy supplies, is conducted through sea, underlining the Navy’s indispensable role in securing shipping lanes.
He said the Navy maintains a constant presence across the Indian Ocean, from the Persian Gulf to the Malacca Strait, ensuring uninterrupted movement of goods, especially during periods of tension. His remarks come in the backdrop of disruptions in oil supplies and blockage of tankers due to the prevailing situation in West Asia.
“There are many sensitive points in the sea where our Navy has continuously made its active presence to ensure the smooth supply of goods. Whenever there is a situation of tension there, the Indian Navy has ensured the security of our commercial ships and oil tankers,” Singh said.
He added that the Navy has demonstrated its capability not only to protect national interests but also to safeguard citizens and global trade routes when required.
Emphasising the importance of maritime strength, Singh said no country can be considered truly powerful without a strong navy, adding that marine power will be crucial in achieving the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Agencies)
