West Asia Conflict Sparks Economic Concerns and LPG Shortages in India

Modi Addresses Lok Sabha on West Asia Conflict, LPG Shortage​

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday termed the prevailing situation in West Asia “worrisome” as it is having a very adverse impact on the global economy and the livelihoods of people. Modi is expected to address the Lok Sabha around 2 pm on Monday, focusing on the ongoing West Asia conflict.

Congress Urges Action on West Asia and Domestic Concerns​

The Congress urged India to take the lead in peace talks in West Asia and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inform citizens about the measures being taken to address the LPG shortage and rising inflation. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated that Modi should have spoken earlier, emphasizing the need to address the war’s impact and the LPG shortage. Congress MP Rajiv Shukla stated that the party expects efforts to end the conflict, noting that diesel prices have already increased by Rs 21. He also criticized the Ujjwala scheme, stating that many cylinders are currently unused. Congress MP Tariq Anwar stated that Modi should have addressed the issue earlier, highlighting India's expectations as a neutral country. Congress MP Ujjwal Raman Singh called on the government to explain the outcome of a high-level meeting that Modi chaired a day earlier on the West Asia conflict and to reassure the people. Congress whip in the Lok Sabha, Manickam Tagore, criticized Modi for the delay in addressing the issue.

Concerns Over Global Supply Chains and Economic Impact​

Congress MP Manish Tiwari warned that the escalating hostilities in West Asia could disrupt global supply chains and impact essential commodities. He claimed that around 3,000 ships are currently idling in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, indicating a major disruption in maritime movement.

Modi Directs Whole-of-Government Approach​

Modi directed that a group of ministers and secretaries be created to work dedicatedly in a whole-of-government approach to deal with the effects of the West Asia conflict.

Modi Highlights Government Priorities and Assistance​

Making a statement on the prevailing situation in West Asia in the Lok Sabha, Modi also said that the security of Indians has been the government’s biggest priority in times of conflict, and the Centre is sensitive, vigilant and also ready to extend every assistance. “The current situation in West Asia is worrisome. This crisis has been going on for more than three weeks, having a very adverse impact on the global economy and on people's lives. The entire world is urging all parties to resolve this crisis as quickly as possible,” Modi said. He also said that cargo movement through the Strait of Hormuz has been a challenge from the beginning of the war, yet the government is ensuring that gas and fuel supplies remain the least affected. “We all know that India imports 60 per cent of its LPG needs. Due to uncertain supply, the government is prioritising domestic supply. LPG production in the country is also being increased,” he said. Modi said that since the conflict began, every Indian in the affected areas has been provided with necessary assistance and has spoken with most of the heads of state in West Asia over the phone in two rounds. Unfortunately, the prime minister said, some people have lost their lives, and some have been injured in the conflict, and help is being provided to the affected families. It is essential that a unanimous and united voice on this crisis reaches the world from Parliament, he said.