Operation Sankalp

The Government of India is considering deploying ships of the Indian Navy to escort vessels stranded in the Persian Gulf amid rising maritime security concerns.

According to shipping industry sources, around 10% of the oil tankers and gas carriers currently stranded in the Gulf are Indian-flagged vessels. Data from Lloyd’s List Intelligence indicates that several ships belonging to Shipping Corporation of India—one of the country’s largest state-owned shipping companies—are among those affected. These vessels together account for over 8 lakh tonnes of cargo-carrying capacity, equivalent to nearly 6 million barrels of oil.

Naval Protection Measures

The Indian Navy has previously conducted extensive maritime security operations to protect merchant vessels, including those carrying Indian seafarers, from threats such as attacks by Houthi rebels and piracy by Somali pirates.

One of the key initiatives in this regard is Operation Sankalp, launched to ensure safe maritime navigation and security in the Gulf region. The operation includes monitoring shipping lanes, escorting vulnerable merchant vessels, and responding to threats in strategic sea routes.

Strategic Importance

The potential deployment of naval escorts highlights India’s growing role in safeguarding global maritime trade routes, particularly in the energy supply corridor connecting the Gulf with Asian markets. Ensuring safe passage for Indian-flagged vessels is crucial for maintaining energy security, protecting Indian seafarers, and stabilizing trade flows in a region vital for global oil transport.

Source: TH