Context:
An Indian LPG carrier ‘Shivalik’ successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened tensions in West Asia, raising concerns over maritime trade security.
Key Highlights:
- Shipping & Trade Developments
- Shivalik (SCI) carrying 54,000 tonnes LPG crossed safely.
- Other vessels:
- Jag Prakash resumed movement
- 23 ships still stranded in Persian Gulf
- 3 ships with 76 Indian seafarers in Gulf of Oman
- Security Risks
- Increased GPS spoofing and signal jamming incidents.
- Ships using manual navigation (“digital darkness”).
- Rise in ‘shadow fleet’ and ‘dark transits’.
- Strategic Importance
- Strait handles ~20% of global oil trade.
- Conflict has made shipping companies risk-averse.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Strait of Hormuz: Connects Persian Gulf to Gulf of Oman.
- LPG Carrier: Ship transporting liquefied petroleum gas.
- GPS Spoofing: Manipulation of navigation signals.
- Shadow Fleet: Ships operating with unclear ownership to bypass sanctions.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Impact on India’s energy security and import dependence.
- Vulnerability of global supply chains and maritime routes.
- Need for maritime security cooperation in Indo-Pacific & West Asia.
- Risks to Indian seafarers and shipping industry.
- Way Forward
- Strengthen naval surveillance and escort mechanisms.
- Diversify energy import routes and suppliers.
- Enhance maritime cybersecurity and navigation resilience.
UPSC Relevance:
- GS II: International Relations
- GS III: Internal Security, Economy
- GS I: Geography (strategic waterways)