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As tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt global supply chains and push oil prices higher, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens
to adopt responsible lifestyle changes to help conserve fuel and foreign exchange reserves. Addressing a gathering in Hyderabad on Sunday (May 10), PM Modi said patriotism today is not limited to sacrifices on the border but also includes responsible daily behaviour that supports the nation during economic uncertainty. “Patriotism is not only about the willingness to sacrifice one's life on the border. In these times, it is about living responsibly and fulfilling our duties to the nation in our daily lives,” PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister outlined several measures citizens can follow to reduce pressure on the economy as the ongoing Strait of Hormuz crisis continues to impact global trade and oil supply.
Use Public Transport And Reduce Fuel Consumption
PM Modi urged people to reduce petrol and diesel usage by choosing metros, buses and other public transport options wherever possible. He also encouraged citizens to use car-pooling and prefer railways for goods transportation to reduce fuel dependency.The Prime Minister further promoted the adoption of electric vehicles and asked people to consciously reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.
Avoid Foreign Travel And Cut Gold Purchases
In a major appeal to conserve foreign exchange reserves, PM Modi requested citizens to avoid non-essential foreign trips and destination weddings abroad. He also urged families to avoid unnecessary gold purchases for one year.
The Prime Minister stressed that reducing imports during global uncertainty would help strengthen India’s economic stability amid rising international prices triggered by conflicts in the Middle East.
Work From Home And Buy Made-In-India Products
PM Modi also called for the revival of Covid-era practices such as work from home, virtual meetings and online conferences wherever possible to reduce travel and fuel use.He encouraged people to prioritise Made-in-India goods, including everyday products like shoes, bags and accessories, instead of imported items.
Apart from urban consumers, the Prime Minister also appealed to farmers to reduce chemical fertiliser use by 50 per cent and adopt solar-powered irrigation pumps instead of diesel pumps. He additionally encouraged citizens to prefer domestic tourism over international travel.
The appeal comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked following the Iran conflict, sharply increasing global oil prices and affecting international shipping routes.
