Speaking during the 132nd episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the seriousness of the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has continued for over a month and impacted multiple countries in the region.
He thanked Gulf nations for extending full support to nearly 10 million Indians residing there, acknowledging their role in ensuring safety, stability and access to essential services during a period of heightened uncertainty.
“At present, a severe conflict has been ongoing for the past month. I am deeply grateful to the Gulf countries for providing all necessary support and facilities to nearly 10 million Indians living there,” the Prime Minister said.
India has consistently remained vigilant about the safety of its large diaspora in the Gulf, with the government closely monitoring developments amid the crisis.
In his address, the Prime Minister issued a strong appeal for national unity, cautioning against the spread of rumours and politically motivated narratives that could create confusion or panic.
He stressed that misinformation during sensitive times can harm the country’s interests and urged citizens to rely only on official communication.
“Those who are engaging in politics should refrain from doing so, and those spreading rumours are causing great harm to the country. People should trust only the information being provided by the government,” he said.
The remarks come at a time when social media has been flooded with unverified claims related to the conflict and its potential impact on India.
The ongoing conflict, which began on February 28 following military action under Operation Epic Fury, has significantly escalated tensions in the region. One of the major consequences has been the closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz by Iran, triggering concerns over global oil supply disruptions.
While addressing the geopolitical crisis, the Prime Minister also emphasised the importance of maintaining calm and collective resilience. He urged citizens to stay informed through credible sources and avoid panic-driven reactions.
His message underscored the government’s broader approach of combining diplomatic engagement with domestic preparedness during international crises.
Alongside the discussion on the West Asia situation, Prime Minister Modi also reiterated his focus on public health and lifestyle improvements. With less than 100 days remaining for the International Day of Yoga, he encouraged citizens to adopt healthier habits.
He urged people to reduce sugar consumption and cut cooking oil usage by 10 per cent, linking these small changes to long-term benefits in combating obesity and lifestyle diseases.
