Narendra Modi

The order aims to facilitate the expansion of piped natural gas (PNG) networks, improve last-mile connectivity, and promote a shift towards cleaner fuels for cooking, transport and industrial purposes, thereby strengthening energy security and supporting India’s transition to a gas-based economy, the government said.

The surge closely aligns with March 24, the date on which Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown in 2020 to curb the spread of Covid-19, a decision that brought economic activity to a halt.

PM Modi, addressing the Parliament on Monday and Tuesday, laid out India’s preparedness and response, while also underlining the long-term challenges posed by the conflict.

n Tuesday, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Islamabad was open to hosting negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran.

The US has backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a key mediator in the Middle East crisis, with envoy Sergio Gor highlighting his role after talks with President Donald Trump.

The conversation with PM Modi comes a day after Trump announced a five-day pause on planned US military strikes at Iran's energy grids and power plants, citing “very good and productive conversations."

Movement of ships through Strait of Hormuz has become very challenging. Despite the challenging situation, our govenment has made efforts to make ways through dialogue and diplomacy, says PM in Rajya Sabha.

Warning of long-term consequences,PM Modi said, “If the war continues, its repercussions will be severe,” adding that the crisis has already “shaken the world” and recovery could take time.

The Leader of Opposition also took exception to Modi’s reference to the COVID-19 pandemic while addressing Parliament in the context of the ongoing West Asia tensions. "Yesterday he made an irrelevant speech. He is the prime minister of India, he must appear to be as the PM of India, he has no position," Gandhi said.

Shipments redirected to Gulf markets after US tariff hit now face fresh risks as Strait of Hormuz tensions disrupt trade routes

Modi said the war in West Asia is a cause of concern, and India wants peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy

The PM also asserted that the fundamentals of the Indian economy remain strong despite global uncertainties.

The Prime Minister pointed to the wider economic consequences of the conflict, noting that global supply chains -- particularly in energy -- have been significantly affected.

Around one crore Indians live and work in the Gulf countries, and ensuring the safety of their lives and livelihoods is also a major concern for India, says PM Modi.

Authorities and security agencies were pressed into service to thoroughly inspect the premises of the Delhi Assembly and the Vidhan Sabha Metro station

India relies heavily on crude imports, particularly from Gulf nations, and the ongoing conflict has intensified concerns over supply and pricing.

Highlighting the significance of the Strait of Hormuz, the prime minister pointed out that a large share of India’s crude oil, gas and fertiliser imports passes through the corridor.

Stressing the broader stakes, PM Modi said the crisis carries “economic, national security and humanitarian aspects” for India.

Drawing a direct comparison with the Covid-19 pandemic, PM Modi said India has previously navigated similar global disruptions without letting farmers bear the brunt.

The Prime Minister said that war between US-Israel and Iran has affected countries around the world, adding that India is making continuous efforts to minimise the impact of the conflict.