Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (2 April) assured the nation that Indian Navy warships are actively escorting the country's oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint that has come under heightened scrutiny due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, the Indian Express reported .
Speaking at a Sainik Samman Sammelan in poll-bound Kerala, Singh said the government is keeping a close watch on the evolving situation in the region and that India is fully prepared for any energy-related disruptions. "We are closely monitoring the situation in West Asia and are prepared to tackle any scenario," Singh said.
The Defence Minister emphasised that there is no shortage of fuel or gas in the country, seeking to dispel concerns that the West Asia hostilities could impact India's energy supplies.
A significant share of India's crude oil imports passes through the Strait of Hormuz, making the sea lane strategically vital for the country's energy security.
Singh also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic engagement with Gulf nations, stating that the outreach is aimed at protecting India's strategic and economic interests in the region.
The Sainik Samman Sammelan, an event honouring military veterans and their families, also served as a political platform for Singh ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections scheduled for 9 April.
He made a direct appeal to voters, urging them to support the BJP, which is seeking to make inroads in the Left and Congress-dominated state. Singh invoked "Modiyude guarantees (Modi's guarantees)" as a promise of credible governance and leadership.
Kerala's 140-member Assembly goes to polls in a single phase next week, with the BJP hoping to improve its tally significantly in what has traditionally been a two-front contest between the LDF and UDF.