India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made seven key appeals to Indians, urging citizens to adopt more responsible and self-reliant habits amid growing global economic uncertainty and disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Framing the message around the theme “Nation First, Duty Above Comfort”, Modi called on people to reduce unnecessary consumption, conserve foreign exchange and strengthen India’s economic resilience through conscious personal choices.
Speaking in Secunderabad after inaugurating projects worth around Rs 9,400 crore in Telangana, the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to prioritise work from home wherever possible, reduce petrol and diesel consumption, avoid foreign travel for one year, adopt Swadeshi products, cut down cooking oil usage, move towards natural farming and avoid unnecessary gold purchases.
The appeals come as tensions in the Middle East continue to affect global supply chains and energy markets, particularly following disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz — a key shipping route through which nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil passes.
Global crude oil prices have surged sharply during the crisis, placing additional pressure on import-dependent economies like India, which imports nearly 80 per cent of its crude oil requirements.
Modi urged people to use metro services, public transport, carpooling and other fuel-saving measures to reduce dependence on imported fuel and help contain inflationary pressures.
He also called on Indians to avoid purchasing gold for a year, noting that India imports large quantities of gold annually, placing pressure on foreign exchange reserves during uncertain global conditions.
The Prime Minister further encouraged citizens to support Indian-made products over foreign brands as part of a broader push towards economic self-reliance and domestic manufacturing.
Farmers were also urged to reduce dependence on chemical fertilisers and move towards natural farming practices to improve sustainability and reduce import costs.
The appeal to reduce cooking oil consumption comes as edible oil imports continue to contribute significantly to India’s import bill.
Modi said collective responsibility and small individual sacrifices could play a major role in helping India navigate difficult global conditions and emerge stronger and more resilient.
The remarks have sparked debate online, with many comparing the appeals to the behavioural changes and restrictions seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, when citizens were repeatedly urged to alter daily habits in the national interest.
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