NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday highlighted India’s resilience amid global instability, saying the country had protected its citizens from the impact of the international energy crisis despite widespread disruptions in fuel supplies and global supply chains.
Addressing a gathering on the occasion of the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Modi said several countries had faced fuel shortages and restrictions on petrol and diesel purchases, while predictions had suggested that India’s large population and dependence on imported petroleum would leave it particularly vulnerable.
However, India had managed to shield its citizens from the worst effects of the crisis, he said, describing the outcome as a testament to the country’s capabilities.
The Prime Minister stressed that national unity and solidarity were India’s greatest strengths at a time when wars, economic difficulties and resource shortages were disrupting the global order. He said the collective determination of the people would help the country navigate international challenges.
Highlighting developments in internal security, Modi said the country had fulfilled its resolve to eliminate Naxalism and Maoism within a year of his pledge during the previous year’s celebrations marking Patel’s 150th birth anniversary.
The Prime Minister also criticised previous governments over their poverty-alleviation efforts, alleging that slogans promising to eradicate poverty had not translated into adequate results on the ground. He claimed that some political leaders had grown wealthier while poverty remained a persistent challenge.
Modi said India was now safer and more determined than ever, attributing the country’s growing confidence to national achievements and the government’s sensitivity towards citizens.
He emphasised that greater self-confidence, resilience and unity would remain crucial as India navigates global uncertainties and works towards sustained development.
