Amidst the increasing tension in West Asia, India has made it clear that the movement of ships in the Strait of Hormuz and other sea routes should be safe and free. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that it is very important for these routes to remain open for international trade and energy supply. India is highly dependent on these routes for its energy needs, especially LPG, and any disruption can have a direct impact on the Indian economy.
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What steps have been taken for the security of Indian ships?
In view of its maritime trade security, India has deployed more than half a dozen warships in the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. These warships are working to provide safe passage to Indian ships coming out of the Strait of Hormuz and to keep an eye on them. Along with this the government has taken the following steps:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while talking to the Iranian President, has emphasized on the safety of Indian citizens and uninterrupted transit of energy. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has also discussed maritime security with the Foreign Minister of Iran. Indian Ambassador to UK Vikram Doraiswami has termed the attacks on merchant ships as completely wrong. The ships are being monitored 24×7 through the Indian Navy and Information Fusion Centre, Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR).
What impact will this have on trade and energy supply?
India imports about 90% of its Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) requirement through the Strait of Hormuz. In recent times, two Indian tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have crossed this route and are safely heading towards India. However, due to increasing tension between Israel and Iran, some ships have been advised to stay there for now. India’s main focus is on ensuring that there is no major disruption in the supply of energy and goods.
Important Update Details 90% of India’s LPG imports come through this route Navy deployment Warships deployed in Gulf of Oman Indian citizens 170 Indians reached Armenia from Iran border Government helpline 24×7 helpline issued to help seafarers
