On March 23, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha concerning the escalating West Asia crisis, which has been ongoing for more than three weeks. He highlighted the potential repercussions of the conflict on India, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
During the session, Modi noted that External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Union Minister Hardeep Puri had provided updates on the situation to the House in recent weeks. He remarked, “The situation in West Asia is worrisome. In the last 2-3 weeks, EAM Dr S Jaishankar and Union Minister Hardeep Puri have provided the details of the situation to the House.”
In response to the crisis, PM Modi chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security. The meeting focused on the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict, with ministers instructed to form dedicated groups to address these emerging issues.
Modi pointed out that the government is actively managing supply challenges arising from disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the tensions, he confirmed that several shipments have continued to reach India via this route in recent days.
India currently holds approximately 53 lakh metric tonnes of strategic petroleum reserves, with plans to expand this to 65 lakh metric tonnes. Modi 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.”
Furthermore, he highlighted India’s diversification of its crude oil import sources, now sourcing from 41 countries compared to 27 previously. This strategic shift aims to bolster India’s energy security amid the ongoing crisis.
Modi acknowledged that the war in West Asia has created unforeseen challenges for India, encompassing economic, national security, and humanitarian aspects. He stated, “This war has also created unforeseen challenges before India. These challenges are economic, related to national security, and humanitarian.”
As the situation develops, the government remains vigilant, ensuring that essential supplies are maintained and that the impact on the Indian populace is minimized. The focus on strategic reserves and diversified sourcing is crucial for India’s energy stability in these uncertain times.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the crisis’s impact on India’s economy and security, but the government is taking proactive measures to address potential risks.
