Last Updated:May 10, 2026, 21:50 IST
PM Modi urged citizens to adopt “national interest first” measures to reduce the economic impact of disruptions caused by the US-Iran war.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a public meeting in Hyderabad. (PTI photo)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for work-from-home practices, reduced fuel use, fewer foreign trips and a pause on gold purchases comes against the backdrop of the deepening West Asia crisis and rising pressure on global energy markets.
Speaking in Telangana on Sunday, PM Modi urged citizens to adopt “national interest first” measures to reduce the economic impact of disruptions caused by the US-Iran war and the ongoing instability around the Strait of Hormuz — a key global oil shipping route.
The Prime Minister asked people to use petrol and diesel judiciously, prefer public transport, carpool whenever possible, and revive Covid-era practices such as virtual meetings and remote work. He also urged people to avoid overseas holidays, destination weddings abroad and non-essential gold purchases for at least a year.
The appeal is being seen as more than just a symbolic call for restraint. It signals growing concern within the government over rising import costs, pressure on foreign exchange reserves and the risk of inflation if the crisis worsens.
ALSO READ: ‘Covid-Era Measures’: After PM’s Appeal, Is Work From Home Set To Return To India’s Workplaces?
Why WFH and reduced travel matter now?
Remote work has emerged globally as one of the quickest ways to cut fuel consumption during energy disruptions.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), more than 70 countries have introduced energy-saving measures in recent weeks, including encouraging remote work and reducing travel.
Countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Philippines have already announced work-from-home or reduced office attendance policies to manage fuel demand.
WFH significantly cuts commuting-related fuel use, which accounts for a major share of daily oil consumption in urban areas. It also lowers electricity demand in commercial buildings by reducing air-conditioning, lighting and office equipment usage.
The IEA estimates that if employees capable of remote work operated from home just one day a week, annual global carbon emissions could fall sharply.
The Prime Minister’s emphasis on domestic tourism and locally manufactured products also fits into a broader effort to reduce dollar outflow from imports and foreign travel spending.
ALSO READ: ‘Our Office Is Open’: Dubai’s War-Triggered WFH Comes To End
Is India preparing for larger economic measures?
While the government has not announced any mandatory restrictions, PM Modi’s appeal has triggered speculation about whether stronger economic conservation measures may follow if the West Asia crisis escalates further.
According to estimates cited by Moneycontrol, India is currently spending around Rs 1,600–1,700 crore daily to shield consumers from global fuel price spikes. Analysts say even a modest reduction in fuel consumption could significantly ease pressure on government finances.
Foreign exchange reserves are also under strain, with nearly Rs 1 lakh crore reportedly flowing out over the past 10 weeks due to higher import bills and global uncertainty.
The Prime Minister’s call to postpone gold purchases is also economically significant, as gold imports are a major contributor to dollar outflows. Similarly, reducing overseas travel could help conserve foreign exchange during a period of global market volatility.
Handpicked stories, in your inbox
A newsletter with the best of our journalism
submit
News india WFH Push, Avoid Foreign Travel And Gold Purchases: Is PM’s Appeal A Sign Of Big Measures Ahead?Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Read More