Source: BL
Subject: Security/Miscellaneous
Context: Against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia, Indian Navy warships deployed under Operation Sankalp have been placed on standby for potential Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
About Operation Sankalp:
What it is?
- Operation Sankalp (Sanskrit for Commitment) is the Indian Navy’s proactive maritime security initiative launched to ensure the safety of Indian-flagged merchant vessels and maintain regional stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Launched in: The operation was officially launched on June 19, 2019, following escalating security concerns and attacks on commercial shipping in the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz.
Organizations Involved: The mission is executed through meticulous coordination between the Indian Navy and several key ministries.
Aim:
- To guarantee the secure passage of Indian commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Aden, and Gulf of Oman.
- To combat the growing threat of piracy in the IOR.
- To safeguard India’s substantial maritime trade, particularly oil imports, from unconventional threats.
Key Features:
- Continuous Presence: Maintains a steady deployment of frigates and destroyers in the Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Oman.
- First Responder Status: Positions the Indian Navy as the Preferred Security Partner in the region, providing immediate assistance during maritime emergencies.
- Anti-Piracy Legislation: Supported by the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act 2022, which provides the legal framework to criminalize and prosecute piracy.
- Comprehensive Surveillance: Utilizes maritime surveillance aircraft and Special Forces (MARCOS) for 24/7 monitoring of sea lanes.
- Escort Missions: Since its inception, the Navy has safely escorted hundreds of merchant vessels carrying millions of tonnes of cargo.
Significance:
- Protects trade routes vital for India’s energy security; nearly 62% of India’s oil imports originate from the Persian Gulf.
- Demonstrates India’s capability as a blue-water navy to project power and protect national interests independently.
