Indian govt has maintained direct communication with Gulf nations to safeguard Indian citizens.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for diplomacy, restraint, and national unity as India navigates the wide-ranging impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, warning that the crisis poses serious economic, humanitarian, and security challenges.
Addressing the Lower House of Parliament Lok Sabah, Modi described the situation as “deeply concerning,” noting that the conflict has persisted for more than three weeks and continues to affect global stability, supply chains, and human lives. He stressed that the international community is increasingly urging all parties to end hostilities and pursue dialogue.
The Prime Minister underscored India’s significant stake in the region, pointing to the presence of nearly 10 million Indians living and working across Gulf countries, as well as thousands of Indian seafarers on commercial vessels operating in sensitive waters. He said the crisis has created overlapping economic, national security, and humanitarian concerns for India, calling for a unified political voice to amplify the country’s position on the global stage.
Modi outlined a broad set of measures undertaken by the government to support Indian nationals in affected areas. He said authorities have ensured assistance to all citizens in need, including medical care for the injured and financial and logistical support for bereaved families. Diplomatic engagement has also intensified, with direct communication between Indian leadership and key regional heads of state, alongside round-the-clock control rooms, emergency helplines, and advisories issued through Indian missions abroad.
Highlighting evacuation efforts, Modi said more than 375,000 Indians have returned safely from conflict-hit zones, including over 700 medical students from Iran. Summing up the government’s efforts he said “The government is sensitive, vigilant, and ready to provide every assistance.”
On education, the Prime Minister confirmed that examinations conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) have been canceled in affected Gulf countries, with alternative arrangements being made to safeguard students’ academic futures.
Energy security remains a central concern, particularly due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz a critical route for global oil and gas supplies. Modi said India has prioritized the availability of essential fuels such as petrol, diesel, and LPG, while stepping up domestic production and diversifying import sources to reduce dependency on any single region.
The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s ongoing energy transition, noting progress in ethanol blending, railway electrification, expansion of metro networks, and adoption of electric mobility. He emphasized that renewable energy including solar, hydro, biogas, and nuclear now accounts for nearly half of India’s installed power capacity, improving resilience amid global volatility.
On the diplomatic front, Modi reiterated India’s consistent stance in favor of de-escalation and dialogue. He condemned attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, and said India is actively engaging regional stakeholders to ensure safe maritime passage and reduce tensions. “Dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable path to peace,” he said, emphasizing that the protection of human life must remain paramount.
Addressing internal security, Modi warned against attempts to exploit the crisis through misinformation, hoarding, or black marketing. He said India has strengthened vigilance across coastal, border, cyber, and strategic domains, and urged citizens to remain alert and united.
The Prime Minister called for collective resolve, stating that India’s strength lies in its unity and preparedness. As the Middle East conflict continues to evolve, he said, India remains committed to safeguarding its people, securing its interests, and advocating for peace on the global stage. (The Times Kuwait)