Mann Ki Baat: PM Narendra Modi Thanks Citizens for Reducing Fuel Use, Limiting Gold Purchases Amid West Asia Crisis
Speaking during the 135th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the PM Modi said the public's cooperation reflected a collective commitment to strengthening the nation during a period of global uncertainty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday thanked citizens for responding to his appeal to conserve fuel and limit gold purchases amid the ongoing West Asia crisis, saying people across the country had translated the call into action. Speaking during the 135th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said the public's cooperation reflected a collective commitment to strengthening the nation during a period of global uncertainty, as reported by TOI.
PM Modi Praises Public Response
Referring to the appeals he had made earlier this year, Modi said many people had voluntarily reduced fuel consumption by using public transport, carpooling and other fuel-saving measures. He also acknowledged reports of citizens postponing non-essential gold purchases, describing these efforts as examples of responsible public participation during challenging times. 'Mann Ki Baat': PM Narendra Modi Hails India's Security and Self-Reliance Milestones, Highlights C-295 Flight and DRDO Missile Test.
The Prime Minister said such actions help reduce pressure on the country's foreign exchange reserves, particularly at a time when global energy markets remain affected by geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Appeal Linked to Economic Stability
Modi had earlier urged citizens to adopt several voluntary measures to reduce India's dependence on imports. These included using public transport and work-from-home arrangements where feasible, avoiding non-essential foreign travel, reducing edible oil consumption, limiting gold purchases for a year and supporting locally manufactured products. PM Modi Hands over Made-in-India Patrol Vessel, Ambulances, Utility Vehicles to Seychelles.
The measures were presented as part of a broader effort to conserve foreign exchange and improve economic resilience amid disruptions in global oil supplies.
West Asia Crisis and Its Impact
India imports a significant share of its crude oil requirements, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global energy prices. The ongoing crisis in West Asia has contributed to higher crude oil prices and concerns over supply disruptions, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil transit routes. Rising import costs have increased pressure on India's foreign exchange reserves and current account.
The Prime Minister first made the appeal during a public event in Hyderabad in May, urging citizens to contribute to national economic stability through voluntary lifestyle changes rather than mandatory restrictions. During Sunday's Mann Ki Baat, he said the positive public response demonstrated the country's willingness to work together during periods of global economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 28, 2026 04:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
