PM Modi Announces Seven Empowered Groups to Mitigate West Asia Crisis Impact
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, highlighted the serious side effects of the ongoing West Asia crisis and revealed the establishment of seven empowered groups to manage the upheaval. These groups, modeled after those formed during the COVID-19 pandemic, aim to mount a comprehensive national response by addressing critical issues such as demand and supply dynamics, price fluctuations, trade, and exports.
Focus on Self-Reliance and Economic Resilience
In his speech, PM Modi emphasized that self-reliance is the sole viable option moving forward, given the global uncertainties. He assured citizens that India has adequate crude oil supplies and strategic petroleum reserves, with enhanced refining capacities and maintenance of 53 lakh metric tons of reserves. The Prime Minister also noted efforts to protect farmers by ensuring sufficient fertilizer supply for kharif sowing, with additional procurement underway.
Diplomatic Efforts and Safety of Indians
PM Modi reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy are the only paths to peace in West Asia, stating that India is actively engaged with Iran, the United States, and Israel to promote stability. He disclosed that he has held two rounds of talks with Gulf leaders to secure the safety of approximately one crore Indians residing in the affected regions.
Strategic Initiatives for Future Preparedness
The Prime Minister outlined several strategic initiatives to bolster India's self-reliance:
- A Rs 700 crore campaign focused on shipbuilding and ship-breaking to reduce dependence on foreign vessels, as 90% of Indian trade currently occurs on foreign ships.
- Progress in achieving self-sufficiency in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), reversing years of high import dependence.
- Calling for collaboration between states and the Centre as Team India to tackle the crisis, similar to the approach during the COVID-19 pandemic.
PM Modi concluded by stressing that past policies of self-reliance and reforms have positioned India well to navigate the current challenges, urging continued focus on economic resilience and strategic preparedness.
