Be Ready for Long-Term Impact of US-Iran War: PM Modi Warns in Rajya Sabha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday cautioned that the ongoing US-Iran conflict could have long-lasting effects, urging citizens and states to be prepared for emerging challenges.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Modi said the war in West Asia may disrupt global energy supply chains and push up inflation. He assured that the government is actively working to manage the situation and protect national interests. “The impact of this war may be long-lasting, but the government is alert and committed to safeguarding the country,” he said.

The Prime Minister called on state governments to act in coordination, similar to the approach taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed the need to protect vulnerable groups, especially migrant workers, who are often the most affected during crises.

He also warned against black marketing of essential goods and urged states to remain vigilant to prevent such practices.

To tackle the situation, Modi said the Centre has formed seven empowered groups to develop strategies related to fuel supply, logistics, fertilisers, and inflation control.

Highlighting the government’s efforts to ensure citizens’ safety, he said more than 3.75 lakh Indians have been evacuated since the conflict began, including over 1,000 from Iran. Among them were more than 700 students pursuing medical education.

The Prime Minister reiterated India’s call for a peaceful resolution, stating that threats to human life are against the interests of humanity. He added that diplomatic efforts are ongoing to ensure safe movement of Indian vessels despite disruptions.

Modi noted that the Strait of Hormuz remains affected, impacting the movement of oil and gas shipments. However, he said India has taken steps to maintain steady energy supplies even under these conditions.

He assured that the country has adequate crude oil reserves, with strategic petroleum storage expanded to over 53 lakh metric tonnes and plans to increase it further. Refining capacity has also grown significantly in recent years.

The Prime Minister said India is sourcing energy from multiple regions to avoid dependence on any single country. Over the past decade, the number of countries supplying oil and gas to India has increased from 27 to 41.

He added that the government is also strengthening domestic energy infrastructure, including expanding piped natural gas and LPG distribution networks.

Modi concluded by saying that crises test a nation’s preparedness and resolve, and that steps taken in recent years—especially diversifying energy sources—have helped India better handle such global challenges.