Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the Lok Sabha on March 23, 2026 that despite the ongoing conflict in West Asia, India has adequate reserves of fuel, gas, urea, fertilizers and food items; He also termed any kind of blockade or obstruction in the Strait of Hormuz as “unacceptable”. Speaking on the “worrying” situation arising out of the US-Israeli attacks on Iran since February 28, Modi condemned the attacks on civilians, energy/transport infrastructure and commercial shipping. He described dialogue and diplomacy as the only solution, and noted India’s consistent efforts to reduce tensions and ensure safe passage. He held two rounds of talks with West Asian leaders, and all assured the safety of Indians; Some Indians have died or been injured, but Indian missions are providing round-the-clock assistance.
A large part of India’s crude oil, gas, fertilizers and essential commodities passes through the Strait of Hormuz, where shipping faces challenges. Despite this, supplies of petrol, diesel and LPG remain stable—the government prioritizes domestic LPG consumers (60% of which is imported), promotes local production and diversifies sources of supply. Strategic petroleum reserves exceed 53 lakh metric tonnes (work is underway to increase this to over 65 lakh metric tonnes, excluding stocks of oil companies); Refining capacity has increased significantly in the last 11 years.
Modi assures adequate food stocks thanks to farmers; Arrangements for urea/fertilizer for Kharif sowing have been completed, due to which the burden of the global crisis (as happened during COVID) will not fall on India. The presence of approximately 1 crore Indians living in the Gulf countries raises concerns—of these, more than 3.75 lakh have returned safely (including about 1,000 returnees from Iran and over 700 medical students).
This conflict is having a serious impact on the global economy and people’s lives, necessitating its immediate resolution. Modi called for a unanimous voice of Parliament, national unity and preparedness to deal with its long-term impacts, and stressed India’s trade ties, security of citizens and strategic autonomy.
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