Joint press conference of ministries amid Middle East crisis, government expressed concern over the situation in Lebanon

Middle East Crisis India Update: Amidst the increasing geopolitical tension in the Middle East and the changing situation in the Strait of Hormuz, the Government of India has assured the countrymen about energy and supply security. At a high-level inter-ministerial press conference held in New Delhi on Friday, officials from the ministries of petroleum, external affairs, power and shipping shared details of India’s preparedness.

The government clarified that despite global uncertainties, India’s power system is completely secure. Currently the country’s installed capacity has crossed 531 GW, of which more than 50% is contributed by non-fossil sources. Keeping in view the summer demand, maintenance of the thermal power plant has been postponed so that 10,000 MW additional power is available.

Government’s appeal to the general public

On the fuel front, the Petroleum Ministry has asked citizens to avoid ‘panic buying’. An appeal has been made not to do (panic buying). To stop black marketing of LPG, 1.2 lakh raids have been conducted so far and 57,000 cylinders have been seized. Online booking has increased by 98% in the industry, which shows the transparency of the system.

Indian citizens return home

The Ports and Shipping Ministry said that there is no congestion at Indian ports and operations are smooth. The government has so far ensured the safe repatriation of 1,927 Indian seafarers from the Gulf region. The accumulation of containers has reduced by more than 90% especially at Kandla and JNPT ports.

Government expressed concern over Lebanon

The Ministry of External Affairs has expressed deep concern over the increasing civilian casualties in Lebanon. The ministry stressed adherence to international law and respect for the sovereignty of states. At present the Indian Embassy is in round-the-clock contact with the Indian community in Lebanon.

Also read: PMO expressed grief over Mathura boat accident, posted on social media; Samajwadi Party targeted the government

There itself, Prime Minister Narendra Modi On the instructions of the Indian Minister, he is visiting Gulf countries to strengthen energy security. An oil-gas supply agreement between India and Mauritius is being finalized, while Qatar has reiterated its commitment to remain a reliable energy supplier to India.