Reporters had misled Navy Chief Admiral Joshi into saying that Indian Navy would, if necessary, go to South China Sea to protect India's economic interests, National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon said.

Mr. Menon, who was on two-day visit to China for discussing the boundary and strategic issues between the two countries, said the media should introspect on its credibility. He suggested that the media should more accurately reflect the reality of India's relations with China rather than manufacturing stories.

The Indian national security adviser pointed out that the border between India and China remained peaceful and the two countries managed to make progress even as the two sides have some issues.

He added that the reports didn't prompt the Chinese side to raise the issue during the discussions. Speaking on the topic, he said, "The Chinese also know how these things happen. They recognise the media plays a role."

Responding to a question at a press briefing on Monday, Admiral Joshi had said that the Indian Naval ships were prepared sail into the South China Sea to protect India's economic interests.

It may be noted here that Indian oil giant ONGC's Videsh arm is currently involved in three oil exploration operations in the South China Sea, whose waters & islands have long been a bone of contention among China, Philippines and Vietnam.