BJP's Leander Paes expresses confidence in PM Modi amid fuel concerns
Bhubaneswar, May 18
Former Indian tennis player and BJP leader Leander Paes on Sunday expressed confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid concerns over fuel-related issues, saying India would overcome the situation positively under the Prime Minister's leadership.
"With the petrol issues going on, I have full faith that India will make it through in a very positive manner. The way PM Modi has led India into the fourth-largest economy, I have full faith that he will do a wonderful job," Paes told reporters.
The Centre on Friday increased petrol and diesel prices by Rs 3 per litre each across the country. Following the revision, petrol prices in New Delhi also rose from Rs 94.77 to Rs 97.77 per litre, while diesel prices increased from Rs 87.67 to Rs 90.67 per litre.
The hike comes amid growing concerns over the global energy crisis triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The geopolitical tensions, particularly the US-Israel and Iran conflict that began on February 28 this year, have disrupted global crude oil supplies and pushed Brent crude prices above USD 100 per barrel.
The situation further intensified after disruptions and blockades near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most crucial maritime oil trade routes. Several West Asian nations involved in the conflict are among the leading fuel suppliers globally.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to prioritise work from home, cut fuel consumption, avoid foreign travel for a year, adopt Swadeshi products, reduce cooking oil use, shift to natural farming and curb gold purchases, while addressing a gathering.
To combat the volatility of fuel prices, PM Modi urged a shift in how India moves. He requested citizens to reduce petrol and diesel consumption by using the metro and public transport wherever available, opting for carpooling when private vehicles are necessary, preferring railway transport for the movement of goods, and increasing the use of electric vehicles wherever possible.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, it's a global crisis because of the West Asia tensions. Every country is struggling. But asking us to reduce cooking oil and avoid foreign travel feels a bit too much. We need practical solutions, not just moral lectures.
As someone who follows global economics, I get the supply chain disruption. But India's push for EVs and public transport is smart. The transition will hurt short-term, but it's the right direction. Paes is just echoing what many Indians feel.
Band baaja phir bada plan... but reality mein petrol 100 ke paar hai. Modi ji ne economy ko strong kiya hai, that's true. But abhi common aadmi ko toh budget adjust karna pad raha hai. Hope things improve soon.
I appreciate Paes' optimism, but blind faith won't solve the problem. Fuel prices affect everything from groceries to commute. The government needs more transparency on how these global factors are being managed locally.
The Strait of Hormuz blockade is scary. India imports a lot of oil from there. I think Paes is trying to boost morale, but we need concrete steps—like boosting strategic reserves or accelerating renewable energy projects. Jai Hind.
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