Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored the critical role of the Indian Navy in safeguarding the nation’s maritime trade routes, particularly the movement of commercial ships and oil tankers.

He highlighted that nearly 95 per cent of India’s trade, including vital energy supplies, is conducted via sea, making naval security indispensable to the country’s economic stability.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of INS Taragiri in Visakhapatnam, Singh emphasised that the Navy’s presence across key maritime zones such as the Persian Gulf and the Malacca Strait ensures uninterrupted trade flows. He noted that the Navy’s vigilance has been especially significant in light of recent disruptions to oil supplies and blockages of tankers due to tensions in West Asia.

The Defence Minister stressed that a strong and capable navy is not a matter of choice but a necessity for India. He explained that the Navy’s active deployment at sensitive points in the sea has consistently guaranteed the smooth passage of goods, even during periods of heightened regional instability.

Singh’s remarks also drew attention to the Navy’s role in protecting India’s strategic interests beyond its immediate coastline. By maintaining a robust presence in international waters, the Navy not only secures national trade but also contributes to regional stability and global maritime security.

The commissioning of INS Taragiri, equipped with advanced strike capabilities such as the BrahMos missile system, further strengthens India’s naval arsenal. Singh’s comments reinforced the message that India’s maritime power is central to its economic resilience and strategic autonomy in an increasingly volatile global environment.

PTI