India’s strategic investments in energy security have bolstered its ability to withstand disruptions from the ongoing conflict 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 domestic fuel production and expand renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and hydropower. His remarks came during the inauguration of infrastructure projects worth more than ₹15,600 crore in Karnataka.
The Prime Minister highlighted key projects such as the LPG facility in Mangaluru, which is set to boost India’s storage capacity by 80,000 metric tonnes, and the Devangonthi marketing terminal, aimed at improving the supply of petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel. Additionally, a compressed biogas plant in Bengaluru is expected to produce approximately 13 tonnes of biogas daily, reducing waste and dependence on imported natural gas.
Modi announced that India’s renewable energy capacity had surpassed 300 gigawatts, with significant advancements in solar energy through the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and solar-powered irrigation pumps under the PM-KUSUM scheme. He also pointed to India’s growing middle class as a key driver of economic development, fueling demand in sectors like automobiles, electronics, and tourism.
During his visit, Modi inaugurated a new section of the Bengaluru Metro, extending the network’s operational length beyond 100 kilometers, and laid the foundation for projects aimed at strengthening fuel storage and distribution, as well as waste management.
Modi also took the opportunity to discuss India’s progress in space technology and scientific research while in Mysuru. He noted the increasing use of satellite technology for practical applications, such as weather warnings, railway monitoring, and crop insurance assessments. The Prime Minister underscored the benefits of opening the space sector to private companies and startups, which he said has spurred innovation and strengthened India’s technological capabilities.