India, April 4 -- Underlining that 95 per cent of the country's trade, including energy supplies, is conducted through sea, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday noted the Indian Navy's indispensable role in securing commercial shipping lanes and oil tankers against emerging maritime threats.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of Indian Navy Ship (INS) Taragiri here, the Defence Minister said the Indian Navy continuously maintains its presence in the Indian Ocean - whether it is the Persian Gulf or the Malacca Strait.

His comments assume significance following the disruption of oil supplies and blockage of oil tankers in view of the prevailing situation in West Asia.

According to him, a strong and capable navy is not an option f...