Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to citizens to use petroleum products like petrol, diesel and cooking gas very carefully as the world faces a deepening energy crisis and rising tensions in West Asia. He also urged people to avoid buying new gold jewellery for one year in the national interest.
Referring to the work-from-home model adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi said offices and companies should once again encourage remote working wherever possible. He also stressed increasing the use of online meetings and video conferencing to reduce unnecessary travel and fuel consumption.
The Prime Minister said the current situation is not just a test for the government, but for the entire nation. He stated that saving foreign exchange reserves and protecting national resources should now be seen as an important form of patriotism.
PM Modi highlighted that India imports a major portion of its crude oil requirements from abroad. In such a situation, excessive use of petrol, diesel and gas could directly impact the country’s economy. With global concerns rising over oil supply and prices due to escalating tensions in West Asia, he urged every citizen to act responsibly and conserve fuel.
One of the most discussed parts of the Prime Minister’s appeal was related to gold purchases. He said India spends a huge amount of foreign exchange on gold imports every year. Recalling earlier times of wars and national crises, he said people used to donate gold for the country’s welfare.
However, he clarified that the government is not asking for gold donations. Instead, he appealed to citizens to voluntarily avoid purchasing new gold jewellery for the next one year, even during weddings, family functions and celebrations.
PM Modi also appealed to farmers to use subsidised fertilisers provided by the government responsibly. He said fertilisers that cost thousands of rupees globally are being made available to Indian farmers at highly affordable rates.
At the same time, the Prime Minister said the government is rapidly expanding alternative energy sources. He noted that India has emerged as one of the leading nations in solar energy and that ethanol blending in petrol is being increased to reduce dependence on imported crude oil.
He further said the government is also expanding piped gas and CNG infrastructure across the country. According to him, these efforts are helping India face the global energy crisis with greater strength and stability.
The Prime Minister’s message underlined that during a period of growing global uncertainty, India’s strength will come not only from government action but also through public participation and collective responsibility.
