)
India has expressed deep concern over the evolving situation in West Asia, particularly regarding attacks on commercial vessels in and around the Red Sea. These incidents threaten the freedom of navigation and significantly impact India’s trade, including energy security.
Diplomatic Efforts to Address the Issue
The government has raised these issues with the countries in the region and tasked Indian Missions to closely monitor developments. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to mitigate the potential disruptions in critical trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, and the Suez Canal.
Multi-Pronged Strategy for Energy Security
To address the potential threats to energy security, the government is implementing a multi-pronged strategy:
- Diversifying Energy Supply Sources: Exploring alternate suppliers to reduce dependency on specific regions.
- Enhancing Domestic Oil and Gas Production: Boosting local production to meet demand.
- Adopting Alternate Energy Sources: Expanding the use of renewable energy.
- Advancing Energy Transition: Accelerating the shift to sustainable energy options.
Maritime Security Operations
The Indian Navy plays a critical role in ensuring maritime security through Operation Sankalp. This initiative is designed to:
- Enhance maritime security in the region.
- Proactively respond to contingencies.
- Protect Indian-flagged merchant vessels, Indian seafarers, and Indian cargo.
Key Achievements of Operation Sankalp
- Deployment of 30 ships equipped with helicopters and air surveillance platforms.
- Response to over 24 incidents, saving more than 350 lives, including 120 crew members of various nationalities.
- Boarding or investigation of over 1,000 vessels in the Arabian Sea.
- Notable anti-piracy operations, including:
- MV Lila Norfolk: Release of crew.
- MV Ruen: Release of crew and apprehension of pirates.
- FV Iman and FV Naeemi: Safe release.
Safeguarding Critical Commodities
The Indian Navy actively monitors and safeguards vessels carrying critical commodities for India during their transit. So far, Indian Navy ships have ensured the safe transit of approximately 91 lakh metric tons (MT) of cargo onboard over 250 vessels.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What is the primary concern for India regarding the evolving situation in West Asia?
A. Increase in oil prices
B. Attacks on commercial vessels
C. Diplomatic relations with neighboring countries
D. Expansion of trade routes
Answer: B. Attacks on commercial vessels
2. What strategy is the government pursuing to ensure energy security?
A. Increasing reliance on imports
B. Developing only renewable energy sources
C. Diversifying supply sources and enhancing domestic production
D. Limiting trade with West Asia
Answer: C. Diversifying supply sources and enhancing domestic production
3. What is the purpose of Operation Sankalp?
A. Conducting military drills in the Arabian Sea
B. Enhancing maritime security and protecting Indian merchant vessels
C. Training Indian Navy personnel
D. Expanding India’s trade routes
Answer: B. Enhancing maritime security and protecting Indian merchant vessels
4. How many lives have been saved by the Indian Navy under Operation Sankalp?
A. Over 100
B. Over 200
C. Over 350
D. Over 500
Answer: C. Over 350
5. Which critical trade routes are being monitored by Indian Missions as part of the government’s strategy?
A. Panama Canal and the Indian Ocean
B. Strait of Hormuz, Red Sea, and Suez Canal
C. Gulf of Mexico and South China Sea
D. Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean
Answer: B. Strait of Hormuz, Red Sea, and Suez Canal