Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a second appeal to citizens, urging restraint in consumption and a collective push for self‑reliance as the West Asia conflict intensifies global economic uncertainty.
Comparing the crisis to the COVID‑19 pandemic, Modi described the war as one of the “major crises of this decade,” warning that its ripple effects are straining India’s economy and foreign reserves.
The Prime Minister called on people to adopt practical measures: save fuel, work from home where possible, opt for online classes, avoid foreign trips, and refrain from buying gold for at least a year. He emphasised that India spends lakhs of crores annually on imports, draining foreign exchange reserves, and urged citizens to follow the “vocal for local” mantra to reduce dependence on imported goods.
Modi highlighted that the war, involving the US, Israel, and Iran since February 28, has disrupted global energy supply chains, driving up prices of imported commodities and creating supply bottlenecks. He stressed that India’s resilience lies in collective responsibility, reminding citizens of their sincere response to government appeals during past crises. “Just as we overcame COVID, we will overcome this crisis too,” he assured, adding that government efforts are focused on minimising the impact on ordinary people.
The Prime Minister’s appeal underscores the urgency of conserving resources and strengthening domestic production. By discouraging gold purchases and foreign travel, Modi aims to curb the unnecessary outflow of foreign exchange. His call for online education and remote work reflects a broader strategy to reduce fuel consumption and ease logistical pressures.
As India braces for the economic fallout of the conflict, Modi’s message is clear: unity, restraint, and reliance on local products will be key to weathering the storm. The appeal is both a reminder of the nation’s capacity for resilience and a directive to channel individual choices toward collective strength.
