Indian warships on standby for humanitarian operations, Pg10

Key Highlights:

• Indian Navy ships deployed in West Asia under Operation Sankalp are on standby for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
• The deployment aims to ensure maritime security for Indian-flagged vessels amid rising threats to commercial shipping since 2019.
• INS Surat is currently in Bahrain for regional maritime security engagement.

Detailed Insights:

• Operation Sankalp was initiated to safeguard Indian-flagged vessels and ensure maritime security in the Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman.
• The Indian Navy has prior experience in HADR operations, making it capable of providing assistance if required in the escalating tensions in West Asia.
• The current deployment includes a frigate and a destroyer, primarily for anti-piracy operations and the safety of merchant vessels.

Key Concepts Involved:

• HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief): Aid and emergency services provided during crises like natural disasters or conflicts.
• Operation Sankalp: Indian Navy's maritime security operation in the Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman to protect Indian-flagged vessels.