Step 1: Concept
Operation Sankalp is a naval operation aimed at protecting Indian-flagged merchant vessels (IFMVs) and ensuring their safe passage in strategic waterways.
Step 2: Meaning
The term "Operation Sankalp" refers to a specific military operation conducted by the Indian Navy with the primary objective of safeguarding Indian-flagged ships, particularly those operating in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman regions.
Step 3: Analysis
In 2019, the Indian Navy launched Operation Sankalp. This operation was designed to provide security and protection to Indian-flagged merchant vessels navigating through critical maritime routes such as the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The primary goal was to ensure the safe passage of these ships from potential threats or hazards that could arise in those areas.
Operation Samudrasetu, Operation Sadbhavna, and Operation Shakti are other naval operations but do not specifically focus on protecting Indian-flagged merchant vessels in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman regions as Operation Sankalp does.
Step 4: Conclusion
The operation aimed at protecting Indian Flag Merchant Vessels (IFMVs) and ensuring their safe passage in the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman in 2019 was indeed Operation Sankalp.
Final Answer: (D)