Prime Minister Narendra Modi has warned India to ready its economy and society “just like the times of Covid,” as the West Asia conflict raises risks of prolonged global turmoil and direct economic spillovers. In comments to Parliament, Modi described the situation as “worrisome,” stressing that the crisis threatens not only energy and trade flows but also national security and the welfare of nearly one crore Indians living in the region.
Modi said the challenges extend beyond markets to supply‑chain resilience, energy security, and food and fertiliser availability, urging the country to draw on the same discipline and coordination it used during the pandemic. He noted that India has diversified oil and gas import sources, built up strategic reserves, and ensured sufficient fertiliser stocks for the summer crop season, while an inter‑ministerial group now monitors imports and exports on a daily basis.
The government has also tuned diplomatic efforts around the safety of Indian citizens, the protection of civilian infrastructure, and the smooth movement of ships through sensitive routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. Modi, while calling for de‑escalation, told the public there is no need to panic and that the economy is better placed today than during the early stages of the pandemic, though he reiterated that preparation, vigilance, and unity will be key to managing the medium‑term impact of the war.
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