New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday, addressed the Lok Sabha on the ongoing conflict in West Asia, highlighting its far-reaching impact on global stability, India’s economy, and the safety of its citizens abroad.
Speaking at a time when the crisis has stretched beyond three weeks, PM Narendra Modi underlined the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution. He noted that the conflict has already caused serious consequences for both human lives and the global economy. “The whole world is urging all parties for the earliest possible resolution of this crisis,” he said, stressing that the situation demands immediate attention from the international community.
The Prime Minister explained that India faces unique challenges due to its deep ties with the region. West Asia remains a crucial partner for trade and energy supplies, and the conflict zone lies along vital global trade routes. A significant portion of India’s crude oil and gas imports comes from this region. Additionally, nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries, while many Indian crew members are employed on ships navigating these waters.
Given these realities, PM Narendra Modi emphasised the need for a united stand within the country. He said that India’s Parliament must send a strong and unanimous message to the world, reflecting the nation’s concern and commitment to peace.
He reassured the House that the government has acted swiftly to protect Indian nationals. Since the beginning of the conflict, assistance has been extended to every Indian in the affected countries. The Prime Minister shared that he has personally spoken, in two rounds, with several heads of state from West Asia, all of whom have assured the safety of Indian citizens. Those injured are receiving medical care, and families of those affected are being supported.
To strengthen this response, Indian missions abroad have been working round the clock. Emergency helplines and control rooms have been set up both in India and in affected regions. Regular advisories are being issued to keep Indians informed, whether they are workers, students, or tourists.
Highlighting the scale of evacuation efforts, PM Narendra Modi informed that more than 3,75,000 Indians have safely returned home since the crisis began. This includes around 1,000 Indians from Iran, many of them young medical students. He also noted that CBSE examinations for Classes 10 and 12 in Gulf countries have been cancelled, with steps being taken to ensure that students do not suffer academically.
Energy security, he said, remains a key concern. The Prime Minister pointed out that major supplies of oil, gas, and fertilisers pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which has become increasingly difficult to navigate during the conflict. Despite these challenges, the government has ensured that petrol, diesel, and LPG supplies continue smoothly across the country.
He credited India’s long-term strategy for helping manage the situation. Over the past decade, the country has diversified its energy import sources from 27 to 41 countries, reducing dependence on any single region. Strategic petroleum reserves have also been strengthened, with current capacity exceeding 53 lakh metric tonnes and plans to expand beyond 65 lakh metric tonnes.
PM Narendra Modi added that India’s refining capacity has significantly improved over the years, further strengthening energy security. The government is also closely monitoring shipping routes and maintaining constant communication with global partners to ensure safe passage for cargo ships. He noted that several Indian vessels stuck near the Strait of Hormuz have recently reached the country due to these efforts.
On the domestic front, the Prime Minister highlighted major strides in reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Ethanol blending has increased from just over 1 percent a decade ago to nearly 20 percent today, cutting oil imports by around four and a half crore barrels annually. Electrification of railways has saved about 180 crore litres of diesel each year, while metro networks and electric buses have expanded rapidly.
He also spoke about India’s growing renewable energy capacity, which now accounts for nearly half of the country’s installed power generation. Solar energy alone has seen a sharp rise, alongside initiatives such as rooftop installations and compressed biogas plants.
Addressing concerns about agriculture, PM Narendra Modi reassured that adequate foodgrain stocks are available. He recalled that during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global urea prices surged to Rs 3,000 per bag, Indian farmers continued to receive it at less than Rs 300 due to government support. He added that six new urea plants have been set up in recent years, increasing domestic production significantly.
Efforts to support farmers also include innovations like Nano Urea, promotion of natural farming, and the distribution of over 22 lakh solar pumps under the PM-KUSUM scheme.
The Prime Minister also addressed electricity demand during the summer, stating that coal stocks are sufficient and power systems are being closely monitored. India has achieved a record production of 100 crore tonnes of coal for the second consecutive year, ensuring stability in energy supply.
On the diplomatic front, PM Narendra Modi reiterated India’s consistent stand—calling for de-escalation, opposing attacks on civilians, and ensuring the safety of global trade routes. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to peace.
He also warned about internal security challenges, noting that some elements may attempt to exploit the situation. Security has been strengthened across all domains, including coastal, border, cyber, and strategic infrastructure.
Concluding his address, PM Narendra Modi urged the nation to remain united and vigilant. Drawing a parallel with the collective response during the COVID-19 pandemic, he called for patience and responsibility. He also appealed to state governments to act strictly against hoarding, black-marketing, and the spread of misinformation.
“When every government and every citizen of this country walk together, we can challenge every challenge—this is our identity, and this is our strength,” he said, expressing confidence in India’s ability to navigate the crisis.