Indian govt monitoring the safety of every citizen

2026-03-23 - 10:43

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the ongoing conflict in Iran and the wider Gulf region as a “worrisome situation” for India during a parliament address on Monday, highlighting the strategic and economic stakes for the country amid escalating hostilities. PM Modi said that around 10 million Indians live in the Middle East and the government of India was closely monitoring the safety of every citizen and evacuation scenarios and contingency plans if needed were in place. With Iran’s military actions disrupting tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz through which roughly 20 million barrels of crude oil transit daily India faces acute pressure on its energy imports, including 1.3 million barrels of oil and over 85 percent of its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) needs. Modi underscored that the government has been actively coordinating safe passage for Indian vessels, irrespective of flag, to mitigate disruptions. “The government is ensuring that energy supplies petrol, diesel, and LPG remain uninterrupted and households do not suffer,” Modi stated in the parliament. He emphasized that India’s energy strategy, including diversification of suppliers from 27 to 41 countries over the past decade and strategic reserves exceeding 5.3 million metric tons, has strengthened resilience against global shocks. Additionally, India’s ethanol blending program has reduced crude import requirements by 4.5 crore barrels, further buffering domestic supply, he said. Highlighting India’s diplomatic posture, Modi revealed that the government has maintained direct communication with Gulf nations to safeguard Indian citizens. Two rounds of calls with regional leaders have facilitated safe maritime transit and protection of Indian communities. The Prime Minister also condemned attacks on critical civilian infrastructure, calling for de-escalation and safeguarding international shipping lanes. On the domestic front, Modi affirmed that strategic reserves, local fuel production, and coal stocks at power plants ensure uninterrupted energy and electricity supply. Fertilizer availability is also secured to support agriculture and upcoming sowing seasons. “India stands firm on its energy and economic preparedness while actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions,” the Prime Minister said, stressing that the crisis has implications beyond markets, extending to national security and the well-being of Indian citizens abroad. On March 21, Modi also spoke with the Iranians in a call focused on the ongoing Iran US Israel conflict, regional security, and the protection of key shipping lanes and infrastructure, according to reports from Reuters and the Times of India. Modi emphasized the importance of de escalation, stability in maritime trade routes, and safeguarding global energy flows, maintaining a diplomatic approach without taking sides in the hostilities. Modi concluded by underlining India’s consistent advocacy for peaceful resolution in the Gulf and Middle East, reiterating that attacks on civilian and energy infrastructure threaten both regional stability and global supply chains.