New Delhi, India, March 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told the Lok Sabha that the escalating conflict in West Asia involving the US, Israel, and Iran remains “worrisome”, with significant implications for global stability, the economy, and civilian life.
Addressing Parliament, he said the conflict—now in its fourth week—has created “unprecedented challenges” for India on economic, national security, and humanitarian fronts. He noted that a substantial share of India’s crude oil and natural gas supplies comes from the conflict-hit region, which also serves as a critical trade corridor.
The Prime Minister highlighted that nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf nations, making India’s concerns “naturally greater”. He stressed the need for a unified national voice on the crisis.
PM Modi said the government has been working to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in affected areas, adding that emergency helplines and outreach centres are operational round the clock. He said India has evacuated more than 3.75 lakh citizens since the conflict began, including around 1,000 people brought back from Iran, among them over 700 medical students. The Central Board of Secondary Education has also cancelled Class 10 and 12 examinations in Gulf schools as a precautionary measure.
Referring to disruptions in maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz, Modi said the passage has become increasingly challenging, but the government is ensuring that domestic supplies of petrol, diesel, and LPG remain stable. With India importing about 60 percent of its LPG requirement, he said domestic consumers have been prioritised while efforts to boost local production continue.
PM Modi informed the House that India currently maintains strategic petroleum reserves of over 5.3 million metric tonnes, with plans underway to expand storage to more than 6.5 million metric tonnes. He also noted that over the past 11 years, India has diversified its crude supply, increasing sources from 27 to 41 countries.
Stating that the consequences of the conflict may endure, the Prime Minister urged the country to remain prepared and united, recalling India’s collective response during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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