PM Modi flags India’s rising summer power demand amid West Asia crisis: ‘We are aiming to generate...'

Prime Minister Modi described the West Asia conflict as 'alarming' in his Lok Sabha address

• India's electricity demand to rise with summer temperatures
• PM Modi says coal stocks and renewable energy capacity are strong
• India boosts security, trade watch amid West Asia conflict

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Amid ongoing war between US-Israel and Iran, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the need of electricity will increase during summers in India.

"With rising temperatures, electricity demand is expected to increase. At present, all power plants in the country have adequate coal stocks. India has recorded coal production of 1 billion tonnes for the second consecutive year. All systems, from power generation to supply, are being continuously monitored. . Our renewable coal energy is at 140 gW. Under Govardhan Yojana, rooftop solar panels have been installed in more than 40 lakh houses,” said PM Modi while addressing the Lok Sabha.

According to PM Modi, the government has also bolstered its preparedness through a strong push in renewable energy. "Over the past decade, India has made significant progress in this sector, with nearly half of its installed power generation capacity now coming from renewable sources. The country’s total renewable energy capacity has crossed 250 gigawatts," said PM Modi.

PM Modi said currently India has a strategic petroleum reserve of more than 53 lakh metric tonnes, and work is underway to create reserves of more than 65 lakh metric tonnes

PM Modi said that the government is aware that "energy is the backbone of economy." "To ensure the minimum impact of war on India's economy, the government is taking efforts," he said.

The PM said he had spoken to all leaders in West Asia and requested to reduce tension and to bring an end to the conflict. "India has extensive trade relations with countries at war and affected by the conflict. The region where the conflict is taking place is also an important route for our trade with other countries around the world, particularly for a large portion of our crude oil and gas needs," he said.

The PM said India is focusing on security on all areas including coastal and cyber security. "We have faced a similar situation during Covid era. Likewise, we must be prepared to face the long-term impact of the West Asia war," he said.

PM Modi urged state governments to monitor complaints on black-marketing and unfair usage of essential commodities.

PM Modi said law enforcement agencies are on high alert, warning that “some elements try to take advantage” during such crises. He added that border, coastal and cyber security, along with the protection of strategic installations, is being strengthened.

“The difficult conditions created in the world by this war are likely to have lasting effects for a long time, so we must be prepared and remain united,” he said.