New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Sunday that more Indians are using public transport and carpooling, while farmers in several regions are switching to natural fertilizers due to shortages linked to the West Asia conflict.
In his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi noted that after his call to limit foreign travel and gold purchases, many people postponed overseas trips and avoided buying new gold for weddings, with some opting to recycle old gold instead.
“In view of the war-like situation in West Asia, I urged citizens to avoid gold purchases, foreign holidays and to promote carpooling,” Modi said. “I also asked farmers to adopt chemical-free methods and increase use of natural fertilizers. Citizens have responded positively and are cooperating fully.”
He added that families have shared messages about postponing gold buys and foreign travel, while others reported greater use of buses and metro services to save on fuel. Reports also indicate higher consumption of natural fertilizers in various areas.
Modi expressed confidence that public participation would help the country navigate the global crisis. The appeals were first made in May amid supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz that affected energy and fertilizer imports.
The prime minister also mentioned recent indigenous developments in defence and aviation, including new naval vessels, the C-295 aircraft and a successful test of a long-range cruise missile. He noted that 40 C-295 aircraft are being built in India, supporting local manufacturing and small enterprises.
