New Delhi: India has stepped up efforts to protect its energy supplies by sending naval ships to escort Indian vessels through the sensitive Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
Under a mission known as Operation Urja Suraksha, the Indian Navy has already guided around 20 Indian ships safely through the region. These vessels include tankers carrying crude oil, liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas, all of which are vital for the country’s energy needs.
The operation comes at a time when the Strait of Hormuz has become increasingly dangerous due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and Western allies. The narrow waterway, one of the busiest oil routes in the world, has seen threats from drones, missiles and other attacks, raising fears among global shipping companies.
Officials said India has deployed several frontline warships in and around the Gulf region to support the mission. The navy is mainly escorting ships after they pass through the most risky stretch of the strait and enter relatively safer waters.
In the early stages of the crisis, more than 20 Indian linked vessels were reported to be stranded or at risk in the area. Some of these ships, including large fuel carriers transporting thousands of tonnes of energy supplies, have now been moved safely with naval support.
The situation in the region has already affected global shipping, with many oil and gas tankers delaying or avoiding the route due to security concerns. This has raised worries about disruptions in energy supply and possible increases in fuel prices worldwide.
India’s move is seen as a cautious but important step to ensure the steady flow of energy imports while avoiding direct involvement in the conflict. Other countries in the region have also taken similar steps to secure their commercial shipping.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global chokepoint, and any prolonged instability there could have far reaching effects on the world economy. For now, India’s naval escorts are helping to ease immediate concerns and ensure that essential fuel supplies continue to reach the country safely.