New Delhi, March 25: In light of the ongoing crisis in West Asia, the Indian government is fully focused on ensuring the safety of its citizens, maintaining gas and fuel availability, and enhancing energy security and self-reliance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed the Rajya Sabha that the top priority of the government is the safety of its citizens. So far, over 375,000 Indians have been safely brought back from conflict zones, including more than 700 medical students from Iran. The affected families are receiving all necessary assistance and medical care.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that he has spoken with leaders from several West Asian countries twice. India remains in constant contact with Gulf nations, Iran, Israel, and the United States to restore peace in the region and fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
India has clearly opposed attacks on civilians, infrastructure, and energy/transport systems, urging all parties to seek a peaceful resolution.
The government has reported that all refineries in the country are operating at full capacity, and there is a sufficient stock of crude oil. Domestic LPG production has also been increased, ensuring no shortage of petrol and diesel. Although there were some panic purchases due to rumors in certain areas, the government has dismissed these claims as unfounded.
Additionally, the government has ensured that ships carrying crude oil and LPG are consistently arriving in India, with backup plans in place to maintain supply.
To strengthen energy security, India has expanded its sources of oil and gas imports from 27 to 41 countries. Furthermore, a strategic petroleum reserve of over 5.3 million tons has been established, with plans to increase it to 6.5 million tons. Efforts are also underway to boost piped natural gas (PNG) and domestic LPG production.
To reduce dependence on foreign vessels, the government has launched a ₹70,000 crore ‘Make in India’ shipbuilding mission, aimed at enhancing shipbuilding, repair, and recycling capabilities. There is also a strong emphasis on self-reliance in the defense sector.
The Prime Minister assured that there is ample availability of fertilizers, and the burden of this crisis will not fall on farmers. States have been instructed to ensure that the poor and laborers continue to benefit from government schemes, with strict action against hoarders.
The government has prioritized gas supply for restaurants, dhabas, canteens, and migrant workers. Initially, 20% of commercial LPG supply was restored, which has now been increased to 50%.
Domestic PNG and CNG supply remains at 100%, while approximately 80% of gas is being supplied to the industrial and commercial sectors. Over 7,500 PNG connections have been issued in a single day.
Moreover, the government has stated that strict actions are being taken against hoarding and black marketing. So far, around 3,400 raids have been conducted, 1,000 cylinders seized, 642 FIRs registered, and 155 individuals arrested. Oil companies have also conducted over 1,500 surprise inspections.
Regarding maritime security, all Indian sailors in the Persian Gulf are safe, and no Indian vessel has been affected. Two LPG ships, named ‘Pine Gas’ and ‘Jag Vasant,’ are en route to India after passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Directorate General of Shipping is monitoring 20 Indian vessels and approximately 540 sailors. A control room is operational 24/7, and over 585 sailors have been brought back so far.
The Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy are also running a 24-hour helpline to assist people. Since February 28, around 402,000 individuals have returned to India.
Flights are ongoing from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar, while Indians stranded in Kuwait, Bahrain, Iran, and Israel are being repatriated via Saudi Arabia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Jordan.
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