Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday highlighted the Indian Navy’s indispensable role in securing commercial shipping lanes and oil tankers against emerging maritime threats, pointing out that 95 per cent of the country’s trade, including energy supplies, was conducted through sea.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of indigenously built stealth frigate, INS Taragiri, here, he said the Navy continuously maintains its presence in the Indian Ocean – whether it is the Persian Gulf or the Malacca Strait.
He said that the commissioning of INS Taragiri will further increase the Navy’s power, values and commitment.
As the fourth platform under Project 17A, Taragiri is a 6,670-tonne warship built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, Mumbai, showcasing advanced design and engineering excellence. It comes equipped with, among others, BrahMos missiles.
The warship features a sleeker structure with a significantly reduced radar cross-section, enabling stealth operations and enhanced survivability in complex maritime environments.
In his address, Singh praised the Navy for being at the forefront during crises.
“Whenever there is a crisis, whether it is evacuation operation or providing humanitarian assistance, our Navy is always at the forefront. I feel our Navy is a symbol of India’s values and commitment. I believe the commissioning of INS Taragiri will further increase our Navy’s power, values, and commitment,” he said.
According to the Defence Minister, a strong and capable navy is not an option for the country, but a necessity.
“There are many sensitive points in the sea where our Navy has continuously made its active presence to ensure the smooth supply of goods. Whenever there is a situation of tension there, the Indian Navy has ensured the security of our commercial ships and oil tankers,” he said.
The Indian Navy has proven that it is not only capable of protecting the interests of the country, but if necessary, can also take every step to ensure the safety of its citizens and trade routes around the world, he added.
This capability makes India a responsible maritime power, Singh said.
