New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday warned of a growing global petrol and diesel crisis, attributing it to ongoing conflicts in key energy-producing regions.
Addressing the 132nd episode of Mann Ki Baat, he noted that March had been a turbulent month globally. Recalling the prolonged impact of the Covid pandemic, he said the world had hoped for a fresh start afterward, but conflicts in different regions have continued to disrupt stability.
Referring to the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, the Prime Minister said the situation had persisted for over a month and affected regions where many Indian families live and work, especially in the Gulf. He expressed gratitude to Gulf nations for supporting over one crore Indians residing there, while pointing out that the conflict zone is central to India’s energy supply. As a result, he said, a global fuel crisis is beginning to take shape.
Despite these challenges, PM Modi asserted that India is better prepared to handle the situation due to its strong international relations, support from partner countries, and the capabilities built over the past decade.
Calling the situation difficult, he urged citizens to remain united and face the challenge collectively. He expressed confidence that, as in past crises, India would overcome the situation through the strength of its 140 crore people.
He also criticised attempts to politicise the issue, saying matters affecting national interest should not be used for political gain. He cautioned against rumours, urging people to rely only on official information shared by the government.
Gyan Bharatam Survey
The Prime Minister highlighted the Gyan Bharatam Survey, an initiative aimed at documenting manuscripts across India to preserve the country’s cultural heritage. He encouraged citizens to contribute by sharing information or images of manuscripts through the Gyan Bharatam app.
Sports and Jammu & Kashmir
Speaking about sports, PM Modi said March had been exciting for cricket fans, highlighting India’s T20 World Cup victory as a moment of national pride.
He also spoke about the growing sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir, noting that the region is emerging as a hub for major sporting events. He mentioned Gulmarg’s recognition through the Khelo India Winter Games and the popularity of football among local youth, expressing hope that the region’s sporting success would continue.
He added that more young people are taking up diverse sports, including those that were not widely popular earlier. Referring to the Asmita Athletics League, he said it was encouraging to see women playing a significant role in India’s sporting transformation.
Focus on fitness
Emphasising health and fitness, the Prime Minister urged people to adopt healthier habits, noting that fewer than 100 days remain until the International Day of Yoga. He advised reducing sugar intake and cutting down cooking oil consumption by 10% to help prevent obesity and lifestyle diseases.
Education and learning
On education, PM Modi stressed the importance of consistent practice and lifelong learning. He cited an initiative by the Prayoga Institute of Education Research in Bengaluru, which offers students from Classes 9 to 12 opportunities to innovate and conduct research in fields such as chemistry, earth science, and wellness.
He also spoke about traditional knowledge systems among Naga communities, highlighting the Morung model of learning, where elders pass on knowledge, history, and life skills through storytelling, songs, and games. He noted that the system continues to evolve, fostering interest in subjects like mathematics and science among children.
Water conservation and environment
With summer setting in across many parts of India, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of water conservation. He said awareness has grown in recent years, with communities across villages actively working to tackle water scarcity.
He noted that nearly 70,000 water bodies have been created under the Amrit Sarovar initiative. He also highlighted a recent effort in Varanasi, where over 2.51 lakh saplings were planted within an hour, setting a new Guinness World Record.
