Indian Navy’s anti-piracy steps gain momentum
India's top priority remains protection of its lucrative trade and petroleum routes that come through northern Arabian Sea and western Indian Ocean.
In recent anti-piracy operations, the Indian Navy successfully thwarted piracy attempts off the coast of Somalia, showcasing its ongoing commitment to maritime security. The Navy's anti-piracy efforts gained momentum with the prompt response to incidents such as the attempted hijacking of the Iranian vessel FV Omaril and the rescue of hijacked fishing vessels and their crews in the Arabian Sea. The Navy, equipped with specialized vessels like INS Sharda, engaged in strategic manoeuvres to neutralize pirate threats and ensure the safety of crew members.
Over the years, the Indian Navy has been actively involved in anti-piracy patrols, deploying units in critical regions like the Gulf of Aden and the East Coast of Africa. The Minister of State for Defence highlighted the Navy's proactive engagement with regional and extra-regional forces to address piracy challenges. The Navy's actions aim to restore maritime security through increased presence, aerial surveillance, and patrols in vulnerable areas.
The significance of countering piracy is emphasized by the economic implications for India, with a substantial percentage of its trade passing through the northern Arabian Sea and the western Indian Ocean. The Navy's escorting of merchant ships in the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC) reflects its commitment to safeguarding maritime routes crucial for trade, energy imports, tourism, and fishing. Overall, the Indian Navy's anti-piracy measures play a vital role in ensuring the security and stability of the Indian Ocean region.