look news india
Strategic and economic challenges for India have increased amid the ongoing tension in West Asia. The region is not only the center of India’s energy needs, but also the workplace for millions of Indians. In such a situation, the Indian government is adopting a balanced and cautious diplomatic stance. Amidst this crisis, India’s first priority is to ensure the safety of its citizens. Along with this, safe movement of oil tankers and maintaining its energy supply chain uninterrupted is also a big challenge for India. The government is not only appealing for peace at international forums, but is also laying full emphasis on deployment of the Navy to strengthen its maritime security.
Energy security and oil tanker crisis
India imports a large part of its crude oil needs from this region. The increasing tension on important sea routes like the Red Sea and the Gulf of Oman is directly impacting the movement of oil tankers. If risk increases on these routes, marine insurance premiums will increase and ultimately impact petrol-diesel prices in India. The Government of India is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant touch with oil producing countries to ensure alternative sea routes and supplies. India’s effort is to ensure that any kind of global instability does not affect the domestic market prices.
Security and diplomatic activism of millions of Indians
There are millions of Indian workers living in West Asia, who contribute significantly to the economy there and India’s economy (through remittances). Ensuring their security is one of the top priorities of India’s foreign policy. As soon as the crisis was felt, the Indian government has put its embassies present there on alert mode and has prepared an evacuation plan to deal with any untoward situation. The focus of PM Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs is to reduce tensions through diplomacy and dialogue. India’s stand till now has been clear that peace in West Asia is essential for India’s economic interests and strategic security.