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Operation Urja Suraksha: Indian Navy Secures Energy Routes in Strait of Hormuz

The Indian Navy launched Operation Urja Suraksha in 2026 to protect India's energy supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz. This region is critical for global oil transportation and India's energy imports. The operation aims to ensure safe passage of Indian merchant vessels amid rising regional tensions. It highlights India's maritime security strategy and commitment to safeguarding energy lifelines. The mission involves naval deployment, surveillance, and coordination with international partners.

The Indian Navy launched Operation Urja Suraksha in 2026 to protect India's energy supply routes. The operation focuses on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea. Nearly 20% of global oil passes through this route.

India depends heavily on imported crude oil, with more than 80% coming from abroad. A large share of this passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Due to rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, risks to shipping have increased.

To address this, the Indian Navy deployed:

  • Warships
  • Surveillance aircraft
  • Maritime patrol systems

The aim is to ensure safe movement of Indian merchant vessels and oil tankers. The operation also includes coordination with friendly nations for maritime security.

Historically, India has conducted similar missions like anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden. This operation aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.

The Strait of Hormuz is strategically important:

  • Located between Iran and Oman
  • Connects Persian Gulf to Arabian Sea

Future impact includes:

  • Strengthening India's energy security
  • Enhancing naval presence in Indo-Pacific
  • Building global maritime partnerships

🔑 Key Points

  • Operation Urja Suraksha launched in 2026
  • Focus on Strait of Hormuz security
  • Protects India's energy supply routes
  • India imports over 80% crude oil
  • Strait handles 20% global oil trade
  • Indian Navy deployed warships and aircraft
  • Linked to SAGAR maritime policy
  • Enhances Indo-Pacific strategic presence

🧠 Concept Link (Very Important)

  • Strait: Narrow waterway connecting two seas
  • Chokepoint: Critical route for global trade
  • Energy Security: Stable supply of energy resources
  • SAGAR Doctrine: India’s maritime cooperation policy
  • Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): 200 nautical miles rights
  • Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs): Maritime trade routes

❓ Practice Questions (MCQ)

1.Operation Urja Suraksha is related to:
A) Space security
B) Cyber security
C) Maritime energy security
D) Border management

Answer: C

2.Strait of Hormuz connects:
A) Red Sea and Mediterranean Sea
B) Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea
C) Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea
D) Black Sea and Caspian Sea

Answer: B

3.Approximate global oil trade through Hormuz is:
A) 10%
B) 20%
C) 35%
D) 50%

Answer: B

4.SAGAR initiative relates to:
A) Space mission
B) Agriculture policy
C) Maritime cooperation
D) Tax reforms

Answer: C

5.India imports crude oil approximately:
A) 40%
B) 60%
C) 80%
D) 100%

Answer: C

📜 Previous Year Question (Similar Type)

1. Which of the following is a major global oil chokepoint?
Answer: Strait of Hormuz

2. SAGAR doctrine is related to which sector?
Answer: Maritime security and cooperation

⚠️ Examiner Trap

Students often confuse Strait of Hormuz with Suez Canal.
Hormuz is a natural strait; Suez is a man-made canal.

🧭 Exam Tip

Focus on map-based questions, chokepoints, and India’s maritime operations.

🏷️ Topics Covered

  • Indian Navy
  • Operation Urja Suraksha
  • Strait of Hormuz
  • SAGAR
  • Energy Security
  • Maritime Security
  • West Asia
  • Oil Trade
  • Geopolitics