Kochi, March 18. (PTI): India has not taken any decision on Sri Lanka's proposal for conducting a joint patrol by Navy's of both countries along the Palk straits, Defence Minister A K Antony said today.

"It is only a proposal. No decision has been taken," he told reporters here.

Sri Lanka has assured that special care would be taken to ensure that Indian fishermen were not fired at.

Matters relating to the purchase of defence equipments have been made more transparent with a 12-member committee headed by the Defence Minister closely monitoring all deals, he said.

An Integrity Pact with provisions to launch criminal proceedings against those trying to indulge in corrupt practise, has been set in motion, he said.

On stepping up marine survillance, he said a decision has been taken to go in for 3 more Offshore Patrol Vehicles (OPV). More helicopters would be engaged. The Navy already has an unmanned Aerial vehicle (UAV).

"We have to be more vigilant. Our oil installations, underwater cables, Maritime trade and coastal areas are important and needs to be protected," he said.

The Air Defence Ship (ADS) being built at the Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), will be ready by 2012 January.

The Ezhimala Naval Academy would be commissioned by 2012, he said.

Antony, who was on his first visit to the Southern Naval Command after assuming office, was accorded a 50-men ceremonial guard of honour.