PM Modi Intensifies Austerity Drive, Calls for Domestic Weddings and Online Classes to Combat Oil Crisis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday intensified his call for austerity measures amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, urging citizens to avoid destination weddings abroad, reduce fuel and edible oil consumption, and temporarily adopt online schooling wherever possible. Addressing a gathering in Vadodara after inaugurating the Sardar Dham Hostel built by the Patidar community, Modi said the conflict in West Asia had disrupted global supply chains and increased economic pressure on countries dependent on imports, including India. He appealed for collective public participation to reduce strain on national resources during the period of uncertainty.

The Prime Minister said India, like many other nations, was facing the impact of rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly because the country relies heavily on the region for crude oil and gas imports. Referring to the conflict that began with joint US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year, Modi described the situation as one of the most serious global crises of the decade. He said the effects were already visible through rising international oil prices and disruptions in supply chains. Drawing parallels with the COVID-19 pandemic, he expressed confidence that India would overcome the situation through unity and coordinated public action.

Modi reiterated several measures he had previously suggested to reduce dependence on imports and conserve foreign exchange reserves. He urged people to reduce unnecessary foreign travel, avoid destination weddings abroad, and prefer domestic tourism instead. Highlighting Gujarat’s Statue of Unity as an example, he said India itself offered world-class tourism and wedding destinations. The Prime Minister also advised citizens to postpone gold purchases temporarily, pointing out that India spends substantial foreign exchange on gold imports every year alongside crude oil and edible oils.

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The Prime Minister further appealed to people to reduce consumption of petrol and diesel by relying more on public transportation, metro services, electric buses, and carpooling. He suggested that offices in both the public and private sectors should increase the use of virtual meetings and work-from-home arrangements wherever feasible. Modi also proposed that some schools temporarily consider online classes to reduce commuting and fuel usage. He said digital technology had already proven its effectiveness during the pandemic and could again help the country manage resources more efficiently during the current global uncertainty.

Modi also stressed the importance of supporting local industries and reducing dependence on imported goods. He called for transforming the “Vocal for Local” campaign into a mass movement and encouraged consumers to prioritise Indian-made products. Addressing farmers, he urged greater adoption of natural farming methods to cut reliance on imported fertilisers. According to the Prime Minister, reducing import dependence across multiple sectors would help India better withstand external economic shocks while strengthening domestic production and long-term self-reliance.

During his speech, Modi also referred to recent Assembly election victories by the BJP and its allies in states including West Bengal, Assam, and Puducherry, saying the results had generated enthusiasm across the country. He praised Gujarat voters for consistently supporting political stability, arguing that economic growth accelerates in politically stable environments. At the event, several prominent Patidar organisations, including Sardar Dham and Umiya Dham, conferred the ‘Sardar Gaurav Ratna’ award on Modi in recognition of his contribution to the nation. The Prime Minister later held a roadshow in Vadodara attended by large crowds of supporters.

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