Modi flags economic, security risks from West Asia conflict, urges unity and preparedness in Lok Sabha

New Delhi, March 23. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha on March 23 on the ongoing conflict in West Asia, warning of its far-reaching economic, security, and humanitarian implications for India while calling for national unity in tackling the crisis.

Noting that the conflict has persisted for over three weeks, Modi said the situation has taken a heavy toll on global stability and human lives, with the international community increasingly pressing for an early resolution.

Highlighting India’s unique vulnerabilities, the Prime Minister pointed out that the region is central to the country’s trade and energy security. A significant share of India’s crude oil and gas imports passes through the Strait of Hormuz, while nearly one crore Indians live and work across Gulf nations. He stressed that these factors make India particularly sensitive to developments in the region and underscored the need for a unified parliamentary voice on the issue.

Detailing the government’s response, Modi said India has moved swiftly to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens abroad. He revealed that he has personally held multiple rounds of discussions with leaders of West Asian countries, who have assured the safety of Indian nationals. Assistance, including medical care and support to affected families, is being extended on priority.

Indian missions in the region have been operating round-the-clock, issuing advisories and running emergency helplines, while control rooms have been set up both in India and overseas to provide real-time support to citizens, including workers and tourists.

The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s evacuation efforts, stating that over 3.75 lakh Indians have been brought back home since the conflict began. This includes around 1,000 evacuees from Iran, many of them students. Additionally, arrangements are being made to ensure continuity of education for Indian students affected by disruptions in Gulf countries.

On the energy front, Modi acknowledged that disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have posed significant challenges. However, he assured that the government has taken steps to maintain uninterrupted supplies of petrol, diesel, and LPG, with a focus on shielding ordinary citizens from hardship.

He credited India’s long-term energy diversification strategy for helping mitigate risks, noting that the country has expanded its import base from 27 to 41 nations over the past decade. Strategic petroleum reserves have also been strengthened, with current stockpiles exceeding 53 lakh metric tonnes and plans underway to increase capacity further.

The government, he added, is actively coordinating with global suppliers and monitoring maritime routes to ensure the safe movement of essential imports. Several Indian vessels stranded in the Strait have recently reached home ports due to sustained diplomatic and logistical efforts.

Modi also outlined structural reforms in the energy sector, including a sharp rise in ethanol blending, railway electrification, expansion of metro networks, and the rollout of electric buses. These measures, he said, are reducing dependence on fossil fuels and strengthening long-term energy security.

Addressing broader economic concerns, the Prime Minister said the government is implementing a multi-layered strategy to manage the crisis, supported by strong economic fundamentals and daily reviews by an inter-ministerial group to resolve trade and supply chain disruptions.

He reassured the House that agriculture remains resilient, with adequate foodgrain stocks and measures in place to support the upcoming Kharif season. Steps taken in recent years, including boosting domestic fertiliser production and diversifying import sources, have helped insulate farmers from global volatility.

On power supply, Modi said India is well-prepared to meet rising summer demand, backed by ample coal reserves and record production levels. He also highlighted the country’s growing renewable energy capacity, which now accounts for nearly half of total installed power generation.

Reiterating India’s diplomatic position, the Prime Minister said New Delhi has consistently called for de-escalation, dialogue, and respect for international norms. He condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure and disruptions to maritime trade, stressing that freedom of navigation must be upheld.

He also flagged potential internal security risks, warning that hostile elements could exploit the situation. Security across coastal, border, cyber, and strategic domains has been intensified as a precaution.

Concluding his address, Modi cautioned that the global impact of the conflict may be prolonged and urged both governments and citizens to remain vigilant. He called for strict action against hoarding, black-marketing, and misinformation, and appealed for collective resolve to navigate the crisis effectively.