Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged Indians to take measures of saving petrol and diesel, including work from home, amid rising global uncertainty.

As tensions between US and Iran are escalating once again, along with concerns over a fresh Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship, the statement from PM Modi is raising speculations among citizens. However, experts suggest that the statement from Modi doesn't hint towards deeper crises but an ongoing global financial crunch. Speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the Prime Minister said India must reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and save foreign exchange as crude oil prices continue to surge globally.

Why PM Modi asked people to work from home

PM Modi mentioned that since we all got used to working from home during the pandemic, we could do it again to help get through these global challenges. He pointed out that the trouble in the Middle East is making oil more expensive, which is tough on India since we buy so much of our fuel from other countries. Modi suggested that people should work from home if they can, travel less, use the metro, and try carpooling or driving electric cars instead.

Why rising crude oil prices matter for India

India buys most of its oil from other countries. So, when global oil prices go up, it hits us in several ways:

• Fuel gets more expensive at the pump.
• It costs more to move goods around.
• Prices for everything else start to rise.
• The government has to spend more on imports.
• The value of our currency can drop.

Basically, when oil prices jump, we end up paying more for groceries, daily needs, and deliveries.

PM Modi also urged Indians to cut unnecessary spending

Besides saving on fuel, PM Modi suggested that people hold off on any foreign trips they don't strictly need to take and avoid buying too much gold. This helps the country keep its foreign currency savings secure.