INS Taragiri’s commissioning ceremony took place on Friday in Visakhapatnam, enhancing India’s maritime capabilities. Speaking at the ceremony, the Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh, pointed out that 95 per cent of the country’s trade, including energy supplies, is conducted through sea.
He further underscored the Indian Navy's indispensable role in securing commercial shipping lanes and oil tankers against emerging maritime threats.
“Indian Navy continuously maintains its presence in the Indian Ocean--whether it is the Persian Gulf or the Malacca Strait,” Rajnath added. The Defence Minister’s comments assume significance following the disruption of oil supplies and blockage of oil tankers due to the prevailing situation in West Asia.
“There are many sensitive points in the sea where our Navy has continuously made its active presence felt 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.
"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.
Citing history, he said without strengthening the naval power, no country can be considered powerful in the right sense, and, therefore, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi talks about Viksit Bharat by 2047, the basis of marine power becomes very important.
With 75 indigenous content, INS Taragiri is the fourth stealth frigate under Project 17A, featuring enhanced stealth capabilities along with advanced weapons and sensor systems.
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