India urges preparedness as global energy supply chains face disruption due to escalating West Asia conflict
PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday cautioned that the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran could have long-lasting economic implications, particularly on energy supply chains and inflation.
Addressing the Rajya Sabha, the Prime Minister urged citizens to remain prepared for challenges arising from the escalating war in West Asia.
“I urge citizens to be prepared for every challenge. The impact of this war may be long-lasting, but I assure the people that the government is alert and the nation’s interest remains paramount,” Modi said.
Call for coordinated response
The Prime Minister urged state governments to work together with the Centre to address the situation, recalling how India collectively tackled the COVID-19 crisis.
“The challenges ahead will test us. I urge all states to act proactively, as in difficult times it is labourers and the weaker sections who are affected the most. Steps must be taken to safeguard our migrant workers. State governments should also remain vigilant against black marketing, which tends to rise in such periods, and ensure that such practices do not take place,” he said.
Modi also said the government has formed seven empowered groups to monitor fuel supplies, supply chains, fertilisers and inflation.
Evacuation of Indians from conflict zones
Highlighting India’s efforts to protect its citizens abroad, the Prime Minister said more than 3,75,000 Indians have returned safely since the conflict began, including over 1,000 from Iran.
“Any threat to human life in this war is not in the interest of humanity, so India is making constant efforts to encourage all sides to reach a peaceful solution as soon as possible. In times of crisis, the safety of Indians both in the country and abroad is our top priority. Since the war began, more than 3,75,000 Indians have safely returned to India. From Iran alone, more than 1,000 Indians have returned safely so far, including over 700 young people who were studying medicine. Our government is working with full sensitivity during this time of crisis,” the PM said.
Energy supplies under pressure
Modi said the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked for many vessels carrying oil and gas due to the war, but India is working diplomatically to ensure safe passage for its ships.
“Through diplomacy, India is trying to ensure safe commutation of the country’s ships even in a war situation. India has opted for a solution through dialogue to resolve this issue,” PM Modi said.
India’s crude reserves and energy diversification
The Prime Minister also assured Parliament that India has adequate crude oil reserves and strong arrangements to maintain uninterrupted supplies despite global disruptions.
He said India’s strategic petroleum reserves have crossed 53 lakh metric tonnes, with plans to expand them beyond 65 lakh metric tonnes. The government has also diversified energy imports, increasing the number of supplier countries from 27 to 41 over the past decade.
Modi added that expanding domestic gas distribution, including piped natural gas and LPG, remains a key focus to strengthen the country’s energy security.
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