THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
New Delhi, March 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday told the Lok Sabha that disruption in the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing West Asia conflict is “not acceptable,” as he outlined India’s multi-pronged response to the crisis.
Addressing the House during the Budget Session, Modi said the government is “alert, empathetic and ready to extend all help,” while closely monitoring the impact on supply chains, economy, and citizens.
LPG, Fuel Supply in Focus Amid Import Concerns
Highlighting energy concerns, the Prime Minister said India imports nearly 60% of its LPG requirement and a significant portion of crude oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz.
“Shipping through the strait has become extremely challenging, but we are ensuring that the supply of petrol, diesel, and gas is not significantly affected,” he said.
He added that the government is prioritising domestic LPG supply, increasing local production, and maintaining smooth fuel distribution across the country to minimise inconvenience to households.
The Centre is also acting against black marketing and has directed states to take strict action against hoarding and misinformation.
India’s Preparedness and Energy Strategy
Modi highlighted long-term preparedness measures, stating that India now imports energy from 41 countries, compared to 27 earlier, reducing dependence on any single region.
He said India has built strategic petroleum reserves of over 53 lakh metric tonnes, with plans to expand this to more than 65 lakh metric tonnes.
He also pointed to progress in ethanol blending, which has reached nearly 20%, helping reduce crude oil imports significantly.
Focus on Indians Abroad, Humanitarian Response
Emphasising the safety of Indian citizens, Modi said over 3.75 lakh Indians have returned safely since the conflict began, including around 1,000 from Iran—over 700 of them medical students.
Indian missions in affected countries are operating 24×7 control rooms, issuing advisories, and providing assistance to workers, students, and tourists. He added that some casualties have been reported, and support is being extended to affected families.
In view of the situation, CBSE has cancelled Class 10 and 12 exams in Gulf-based Indian schools and is ensuring that students’ education continues without disruption.
Call for Unity, Diplomacy and Peace
Describing the crisis as a major challenge with economic, strategic, and humanitarian implications, Modi said nearly one crore Indians live and work in Gulf countries, underlining India’s stakes in the region.
He stressed that Parliament must speak in one voice on the issue and reiterated that “dialogue and diplomacy are the only solutions.”
“War is not in the interest of humanity,” he said, adding that India is engaging with global leaders to push for an early resolution of the conflict.