New Delhi [India], March 13 (HBTV): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday outlined a dual approach to energy security, focusing on expanding domestic infrastructure to increase access and promoting self-reliance to reduce dependence on imports.
Addressing the gathering at the NXT Conclave in Bharat Mandapam, the Prime Minister said, 'First, to increase energy access in the country, we build infrastructure. Second, we do not have to rely solely on foreign sources for energy. For this, we emphasised self-reliance in the energy sector.'
He also criticised the Opposition for 'pursuing its own agenda' amid discussions around LPG supply and assured that continuous efforts are being made to overcome obstacles in the supply chain.
The Prime Minister said some sections were attempting to create panic among the public, which could harm the country.
'There's a lot of discussion these days about LPG. Some people are trying to create panic and pursue their own agenda. I don't want to comment on them politically at this time. But I will definitely say that by doing so, they are exposing themselves to the public and causing significant harm to the entire country. No country is untouched by the impact of this global crisis caused by war. To a greater or lesser extent, everyone is affected by this crisis. India is also leaving no stone unturned to address this crisis, and we are making efforts at various levels. Recently, I discussed this with top leaders from several countries around the world. Continuous efforts are also underway to overcome the obstacles in the supply chain,' he said.
PM Modi further highlighted the efforts made by the government to boost the capacity of petrol, diesel and LPG resources in the country.
He said that from minimal petroleum reserves prior to 2014, the country has now established over 50 lakh tonnes of strategic petroleum reserves. He also noted that the number of LPG connections and LNG terminals has significantly increased over the years.
'In the petroleum and diesel sector, we have made significant strides in capacity building. Prior to 2014, India's strategic petroleum reserves--crude oil stored for use during times of crisis--were minimal. Today, we have established over 50 lakh tonnes of strategic petroleum reserves,' the Prime Minister said.
'Until 2014, there were only 14 crore LPG connections in the country. Today, there are more than double that--33 crore household LPG connections. In 2014, there were only four LNG terminals in the country. Today, their number has also doubled,' he added.
Assuring the public, the Prime Minister also referred to the rise in fertiliser prices during the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the steps taken by the government to shield farmers from the impact. He said the price of a bag of urea has been maintained at around INR 300 in India despite costing around INR 3000 in the international market.
'The Indian government has always made every effort to ensure that the burden of the war's consequences does not fall on Indian citizens. When the Russia-Ukraine crisis escalated, fertiliser prices skyrocketed. Despite this, we provided our farmers with a bag of urea for INR 300, which used to cost INR 3000 in the international market. This time too, we will make every effort to ensure that the war has minimal impact on the lives of our farmers and citizens,' he said.
The Prime Minister also urged state governments to prevent black marketing and the spread of rumours and called for strict action against those involved in such activities.
'In this crucial time, I also request the state governments that it is essential to prevent black marketing and the spread of rumours. Careful monitoring of the situation is necessary and major action should be taken against those engaging in black marketing,' he said.
(ANI)