1. What is Operation Sankalp?
Operation Sankalp is a maritime security operation conducted by the Indian Navy in the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). It aims to protect merchant vessels and ensure maritime security against piracy, drone attacks, and threats from non-state actors, including the Houthi rebels.
2. Why was Operation Sankalp initiated?
The operation was initiated in response to increasing maritime threats in the Arabian Sea and the IOR, including piracy and attacks from non-state actors like the Houthi rebels. Its goal is to safeguard international maritime trade routes and ensure the safety of life at sea.
3. How does Operation Sankalp address threats from the Houthi rebels?
Operation Sankalp involves extensive surveillance, boarding operations, and coordination with international partners to monitor and counter threats. By maintaining a strong naval presence and readiness to respond to incidents, the Indian Navy aims to deter and address potential threats from Houthi rebels and other non-state actors.
4. What achievements has the Indian Navy made under Operation Sankalp?
Since its launch, the Indian Navy has rescued over 110 lives, including 45 Indian seafarers; escorted 1.5 million tons of critical commodities; conducted nearly 1,000 boarding operations; seized over 3,000 kg of narcotics; and assured over 450 merchant vessels of the Navy's presence, effectively enhancing maritime security in the region.
5. Are there international collaborations involved in Operation Sankalp?
Yes, Operation Sankalp involves collaboration with international forces such as China's Anti Piracy Escort Force and Europe's EUNAVFOR, as well as coordination with countries affected by piracy and maritime threats. This collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of anti-piracy and maritime security efforts.
6. How does Operation Sankalp impact India's maritime interests?
Operation Sankalp plays a crucial role in protecting India's maritime interests by ensuring the safety of shipping routes that are vital for India's trade and energy security. It also reinforces India's position as a responsible naval power committed to maintaining regional stability and safeguarding the maritime commons.
7. What is the significance of the Indian Navy's role in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)?
The Indian Navy's role in the Indian Ocean Region is critical for several reasons. As the primary maritime force in an area central to global trade and energy routes, the Indian Navy ensures the security of sea lanes against threats like piracy, terrorism, and interstate conflicts. The IOR is strategic not only for India's economic growth through maritime trade but also for its energy security, as a significant portion of the world's oil shipments pass through this region.
8. Can Operation Sankalp deter future maritime threats?
Operation Sankalp is designed not just to respond to immediate threats but also to deter future maritime security threats by establishing a visible and capable presence in the region. The operation's successes in surveillance, interdiction, and rescue missions send a strong message to potential aggressors about the Indian Navy's readiness to protect maritime interests and uphold international maritime laws.
9. How does the Indian Navy coordinate with international partners in Operation Sankalp?
The Indian Navy coordinates with international partners through joint exercises, information sharing, and operational cooperation. This collaborative approach enhances mutual understanding, strategic alignment, and operational effectiveness, making maritime security efforts more cohesive and robust against shared threats.
10. What future challenges might Operation Sankalp face?
Future challenges could include evolving maritime threats such as sophisticated piracy tactics, cyber-attacks on maritime infrastructure, and geopolitical tensions affecting the security environment in the IOR. Adapting to these emerging threats will require continuous assessment, technological advancement, and enhanced international cooperation to ensure the operation's ongoing success and the security of the maritime domain.
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