On March 23, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a significant address in the Lok Sabha concerning the escalating conflict in West Asia, which has been intensifying for over three weeks. The Prime Minister highlighted the worrisome situation, noting that External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Union Minister Hardeep Puri had briefed the House on the developments.
During his address, Modi chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security to deliberate on the implications of the West Asia crisis for India. He emphasized that the ongoing war has introduced unforeseen challenges, impacting economic stability, national security, and humanitarian efforts.
In response to these challenges, Modi instructed ministers to form dedicated groups aimed at tackling the emerging issues stemming from the crisis. The government is actively managing supply challenges, particularly those arising from disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for oil.
As part of its strategic response, India currently holds approximately 53 lakh metric tonnes of strategic petroleum reserves, with plans to expand this capacity to 65 lakh metric tonnes. This move is crucial as India diversifies its crude oil import sources, now procuring from 41 countries, up from 27 previously.
Modi reassured the nation that the supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for domestic use remains a top priority for the government, even as domestic production has seen significant increases over the years. He stated, “LPG supply for domestic use continues to be the government’s top focus, even as production within the country has increased over the years.”
Despite the heightened tensions in the region, Modi noted that several shipments have continued to reach India via the Hormuz route in recent days, indicating a resilient supply chain amidst the crisis. He remarked, “India is procuring petroleum and gas from multiple global sources, keeping a close watch on key shipping routes, including those in the Gulf region.”
The Prime Minister’s address underscores the government’s proactive approach to managing the multifaceted challenges posed by the West Asia conflict. As the situation evolves, the implications for India’s economy and security will be closely monitored by both the government and the public.
