PrintFriendly
PM addresses the Rajya Sabha on the ongoing conflict in West Asia
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the Rajya Sabha on 24 March 2026 presenting the Government’s position on the situation arising from the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Noting that the war, which has been raging for over three weeks, has precipitated a severe global energy crisis with deeply worrying implications for India, PM Shri Modi pointed out that the conflict is disrupting India’s trade routes and affecting the routine supply of essential commodities such as petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilizers. With nearly one crore Indians living and working in Gulf countries, their safety and livelihoods remain a matter of profound concern, the Prime Minister observed, while also drawing attention to the large number of Indian crew members stranded aboard ships in the Strait of Hormuz. “In such dire circumstances, it is imperative that a united voice of peace and dialogue goes out to the entire world from this august Upper House of the Indian Parliament,” affirmed Shri Modi.
Highlights of the address:
• Since the outbreak of hostilities, India has undertaken vigorous diplomatic outreach aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region. The Prime Minister personally held multiple rounds of telephonic discussions with leaders of several West Asian countries and maintained continuous engagement with Gulf nations as well as key global stakeholders such as Iran, Israel, and the United States. The central objective of these efforts has been to promote dialogue, de-escalation, and the reopening of critical maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, which holds immense importance for global energy supply.
• Reaffirming India’s principled stance, the Prime Minister categorically condemned attacks on commercial vessels, civilians, and infrastructure, including energy and transport systems. He stressed that any disruption to international waterways is unacceptable and contrary to global interests. Highlighting the humanitarian dimension, he asserted that threats to human life undermine the very foundation of humanity, and India remains committed to encouraging all parties toward a peaceful resolution.
• A key priority for the Government has been the safety and welfare of Indian citizens. The Prime Minister noted that over 3.75 lakh Indians have been evacuated since the crisis began, including more than 1,000 individuals from Iran, many of whom were students. While host countries have assured the safety of Indian nationals, he expressed deep sorrow over casualties and injuries suffered during the conflict, assuring full support, including medical care and assistance to affected families.
• Prime Minister highlighted the critical role of the Strait of Hormuz in transporting crude oil, gas, and fertilizers. Despite disruptions, the Government has secured alternative supply channels, ensuring continued inflow of essential resources. He warned, however, that prolonged conflict could have serious long-term consequences, prompting India to accelerate resilience-building measures.
• The Prime Minister underlined India’s preparedness, developed over the past decade through diversification of energy imports—from 27 to 41 countries—and the creation of strategic petroleum reserves exceeding 53 lakh metric tonnes, with plans for further expansion. Efforts to reduce dependence on single energy sources include expanding Piped Natural Gas (PNG) networks and boosting domestic LPG production.
• Emphasising self-reliance, he pointed out India’s vulnerability due to reliance on foreign-flagged vessels for oil transport and announced a Rs. 70,000 crore initiative to strengthen domestic shipbuilding. Parallel efforts in defence manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals aim to reduce import dependence and enhance national resilience.
• The Government has established an Inter-Ministerial Group and multiple Empowered Groups, similar to those during the COVID-19 pandemic, to address supply chains, fuel availability, fertilizers, and inflation. The Prime Minister also reassured farmers of uninterrupted fertilizer supply and urged State Governments to ensure the availability of essential goods, curb hoarding, and support vulnerable populations.
• The Prime Minister called for unity, patience, and cooperative federalism, urging both the Centre and States to work together in a “Team India” spirit. He assured the nation that the Government remains vigilant, prepared, and fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens amid this evolving global crisis.