Energy crisis discussed at Cabinet meeting
The Prime Minister reviewed the impact of Middle East tensions on India’s fuel security
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged his ministers to urgently explore alternative energy sources as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to impact India’s fuel security and energy imports.
During a nearly four-hour-long meeting of the Union Council of Ministers, the Prime Minister stressed the need to reduce dependence on conventional fuel sources and accelerate efforts towards energy diversification, sources said.
The meeting took place shortly after PM Modi returned from his five-nation diplomatic tour, which included a key visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Energy security reportedly emerged as one of the central themes during the discussions.
Sources said the Prime Minister particularly pushed for greater adoption of biogas as a substitute for LPG cooking gas and reiterated the need to promote cleaner and sustainable energy alternatives.
India has been facing mounting pressure due to the ongoing US-Israel conflict involving Iran and the continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. The crisis has disrupted fuel supplies from the Gulf region and triggered a spike in global crude oil prices.
The impact has already begun to hit Indian consumers, with petrol and diesel prices increasing by around Rs 3 per litre in recent days as oil marketing companies attempt to offset rising import costs.
During the meeting, PM Modi also emphasised the importance of implementing reforms aggressively and said the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” was not merely a slogan but a national commitment.
The Prime Minister called upon ministers to simplify government functioning and ensure public welfare remained the top priority across departments.
According to sources, ministers were also instructed to directly communicate the government’s achievements, welfare schemes and reform agenda to the public as the NDA government approaches key political milestones.
Nine ministries reportedly made presentations before the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. These included the ministries of Agriculture, Forestry, Labour, Road Transport, Corporate Affairs, External Affairs, Commerce and Power.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also briefed the ministers on India’s recent diplomatic outreach during PM Modi’s five-nation visit.
The meeting also reviewed the government’s reform initiatives and achievements over the last 12 years, with ministries presenting reports on policy implementation and future plans.
The high-level meeting assumes significance amid speculation about a possible Cabinet reshuffle ahead of June 9, when the Modi government completes 12 years at the Centre and two years of its third term.
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