Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Jodhpur, Rajasthan, on Saturday to inaugurate the new terminal building of the Jodhpur Airport. This significant infrastructure project is part of a broader initiative to provide several new projects to the state of Rajasthan, while during his address, the Prime Minister emphasized that the new terminal is designed to provide better facilities to passengers and will serve as a catalyst for tourism, trade, and economic opportunities across the entire state of Rajasthan. Beyond the local infrastructure, PM Modi took the opportunity to reflect on India's resilience during one of the most challenging periods in recent global history, specifically focusing on how the nation managed the 21st century's largest energy crisis.
Overcoming the Energy Crisis with Strong Willpower
The Prime Minister noted that the conflict in West Asia triggered the most significant energy crisis of the 21st century. He stated that the willpower and efforts of the new India in the 21st century were instrumental in overcoming this massive challenge. According to PM Modi, India made the right decisions at every level, assessed the crisis accurately in a timely manner, and formulated an effective strategy. The nation balanced the use of its resources and utilized its diplomatic strength positively to emerge from the crisis, while he highlighted that the country's ability to navigate these turbulent times was a testament to its growing global influence and internal stability.
Targeting Those Spreading Rumors and Fear
PM Modi addressed the internal challenges faced during the crisis, specifically targeting certain forces that were publicly engaged in spreading rumors and fear. He mentioned that while these forces attempted to create instability, the government's hard work, patience, and strategic steps at both policy and diplomatic levels were recorded in history as unprecedented. The Prime Minister recalled how the citizens of India faced those who spread confusion and fear, successfully thwarting conspiracies aimed at creating instability. He credited the trust of the people as the foundation upon which the country was able to move forward despite these negative influences.
Government Responsibility and Financial Relief
The Prime Minister detailed the financial measures taken to protect the public from the brunt of the energy crisis. He revealed that many rumors were spread to scare and incite people for political gains, but these ill intentions didn't succeed. Despite minor hurdles in remote areas, there were no major challenges in fuel supply across the country. PM Modi disclosed that between April and June alone, oil companies had to bear a loss of more than 75000 crore rupees in diesel and petrol. The responsibility to cover this massive loss was taken up by the government treasury. On top of that, the government reduced the Excise Duty by 10 rupees per liter to ensure that the heavy burden of global price hikes didn't fall entirely on the citizens.
Diplomatic Success and Fuel Import Diversification
A key highlight of the Prime Minister's speech was India's diplomatic success during the war period. He stated that India's friendships with other nations proved to be very beneficial during the crisis. Before the crisis began, India used to import fuel from 25 to 26 countries. However, during the peak of the crisis, India's diplomacy was on full display as it expanded its import base to more than 40 countries. PM Modi emphasized that India's good relations with other nations were crucial in this hour of need. He sent a clear message to the world that national interest and the interest of the citizens are paramount for India, guided by the mantra of Nagrik Devo Bhavah.