Be prepared for challenges, impact may be long-lasting: PM Modi cautions on US-Iran w
Be prepared for challenges, impact may be long-lasting: PM Modi cautions on US-Iran war in Rajya Sabha
M.U.H
24/03/202618
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, while delivering the Rajya Sabha address, urged citizens to brace for challenges arising from the ongoing US-Iran war in West Asia, noting that its impact on energy supply chains and inflation could have long-term implications.
Modi said the government is working on all fronts to manage the situation and safeguard public interest, adding, “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.”
The Prime Minister also requested the states to work like one team and face the challenges like they did during the Corona time. “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" Modi said.
The PM said that, like in corona times, government has constituted seven empowered groups to evolve strategies on fuel, supply chains, fertilisers, and keep inflation in check: PM Modi in Rajya Sabha.
He also said that India is prioritising the safety of its citizens during the West Asia conflict, noting that over 3,75,000 Indians have been safely evacuated so far, including more than 1,000 from Iran, while urging all sides to seek a peaceful resolution.
"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.
Modi added that due to war the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked for ships, containing gas and oil, to pass but India has made its best efforts to ensure the energy needs reach the shores in time even during this challenging time.
"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.
Adequate crude oil reserves with India: PM
The PM said India has adequate crude oil reserves and strong arrangements to ensure uninterrupted supply despite the ongoing West Asia conflict. He noted that strategic petroleum reserves have been expanded to over 53 lakh metric tonnes, with plans to increase them beyond 65 lakh metric tonnes, alongside a significant rise in refining capacity over the past decade.
Modi assured that the government is taking all necessary steps to maintain steady energy supplies even as global trade through the Strait of Hormuz faces disruptions. He said India is sourcing oil and gas from multiple regions, and recent shipments of crude oil and LPG from various countries have already arrived, with efforts continuing to secure supplies from all possible sources.
The Prime Minister also reiterated that India has diversified its energy imports from 27 to 41 countries in the last decade to reduce dependence on any single source. He added that the government is expanding domestic gas distribution, including piped natural gas and LPG, to strengthen energy security.
Modi emphasised that crises test both resolve and preparedness, and said the steps taken over the past 11 years, especially diversification of energy sources, have helped India better manage such challenges.
