India’s strategic investments in energy infrastructure have bolstered its resilience against disruptions stemming from conflicts in West Asia, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, Modi emphasized the country’s efforts over the past decade to enhance energy security amidst tensions involving Iran and Gulf countries.
During his visit to Karnataka, where he inaugurated infrastructure projects valued at over ₹15,600 crore, Modi highlighted initiatives to boost domestic fuel production and expand renewable energy sources. He pointed to the development of crude oil storage facilities and the swift growth in solar, wind, and hydropower capacities as key measures strengthening India’s energy framework.
Among the projects inaugurated was a new section of the Bengaluru Metro, extending the network’s operational length beyond 100 kilometers. Modi also laid the foundation for several infrastructure and energy projects designed to improve fuel storage and distribution, including an LPG facility in Mangaluru, which will expand storage capacity by 80,000 metric tonnes. Additionally, the Devangonthi marketing terminal aims to enhance the supply of petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel.
The Prime Minister noted that India’s renewable energy capacity has surpassed 300 gigawatts, citing the expansion of rooftop solar installations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and the deployment of solar-powered irrigation pumps through the PM-KUSUM scheme. A compressed biogas plant in Bengaluru is also expected to produce approximately 13 tonnes of biogas daily, contributing to waste reduction and decreased reliance on imported natural gas.
Modi underscored the role of India’s burgeoning middle class in driving economic development, generating demand across various sectors such as automobiles, electronics, tourism, education, and healthcare. In Mysuru, he also highlighted advancements in space technology, with satellite applications supporting practical uses like weather forecasting for fishermen, railway monitoring, and crop insurance assessments.
The Prime Minister praised the opening of the space sector to private companies and startups, fostering innovation and enhancing India’s technological capabilities. His remarks underscored the broader implications of India’s energy strategy, which aims to safeguard its economic stability and progress amid global uncertainties.