West Asia crisis worrisome: PM urges Covid-like unity
Strong fundamentals, contingency plans in place | Energy, fertiliser, food stocks adequate
image for illustrative purpose
New Delhi: Calling the West Asia conflict “worrisome”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday drew parallels with the COVID-19 crisis and urged the nation to remain prepared, united and vigilant as global uncertainties persist.
Addressing the Lok Sabha, Modi said the evolving geopolitical situation could have prolonged economic and strategic implications, but asserted that India’s strong fundamentals and proactive planning position it well to manage the fallout. “Just as we stood together during COVID, we must once again act with unity and resilience,” he said. Reiterating that “dialogue and diplomacy” are the only sustainable solutions, Modi said India continues to advocate de-escalation and peace, while opposing attacks on civilian infrastructure and global trade routes.
Highlighting preparedness, the Prime Minister said India has built substantial energy buffers over the past decade. Strategic petroleum reserves exceed 5.3 million metric tonnes, with an additional 6.5 million metric tonnes of storage capacity under development. Domestic oil companies also maintain reserves, while refining capacity has expanded significantly.
With tensions affecting key shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz, Modi termed disruptions to commercial vessels “unacceptable” and said the government is actively working to ensure safe passage and continuity of trade. India is also in constant touch with global suppliers to secure steady crude oil and gas flows.
Seeking to allay concerns, Modi said there is no immediate risk to essential supplies. Coal stocks at power plants are adequate to meet rising summer demand, while diversification of energy sources, including renewables and ethanol blending, has reduced dependence on imports.
On the agriculture front, he said India is well prepared for the upcoming Kharif season, with sufficient foodgrain reserves and fertiliser availability. The government has diversified import sources and boosted domestic production to shield farmers from global volatility. Emphasising the region’s importance for India’s energy and trade security, Modi said efforts are underway to minimise disruptions to supplies of petrol, diesel and cooking gas.
