Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the conflict in West Asia has reinforced the urgency for India to strengthen its energy security and reduce reliance on external supplies.
Speaking at a National Democratic Alliance (NDA) convention in Ernakulam, Modi described the situation in West Asia as “a matter of concern for all” and said the crisis had once again highlighted the importance of expanding India’s petroleum sector.
“The expansion of the petroleum sector is essential,” Modi said, adding that the current geopolitical tensions underline the need for India to become Atmanirbhar (self-reliant).
During the visit, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a polypropylene unit at Kochi Refinery and inaugurated development projects worth nearly ₹11,000 crore.
India is the world’s third-largest oil consumer and remains heavily dependent on imports to meet its crude requirements. West Asian producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates account for a substantial share of India’s crude supplies, making geopolitical developments in the region a key factor influencing the country’s energy security and exposure to oil price volatility.
Modi said previous global disruptions — including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine war — had already exposed vulnerabilities linked to external dependence.
India has been expanding domestic refining capacity while accelerating investments in renewable energy and electric mobility as part of efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce long-term dependence on imported fuels.
Referring to Indians working in West Asian countries, Modi said the government remained prepared to assist citizens if required and that Indian missions were working round the clock to support nationals in the region.
