Why PM Modi Urged Indians to Avoid Buying Gold and Cut Down on Oil Use

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sparked a nationwide debate after urging citizens to avoid buying gold for the next year. Speaking at a public gathering in Hyderabad, Telangana, the Prime Minister said the move would help conserve India’s valuable foreign exchange reserves during a period of global uncertainty.

PM Modi ’s Appeal to Citizens

Addressing concerns over rising global tensions and supply chain disruptions, Modi said every Indian has a role to play in protecting the country’s economy. He asked people to:

• Avoid purchasing gold and silver for one year
• Reduce consumption of edible oils
• Use petrol and diesel sparingly

According to the Prime Minister, these simple steps can help reduce import bills and ease pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

Why Gold Buying Matters

India is one of the world’s largest consumers of gold, and much of it is imported. This means large amounts of foreign currency are spent every year to meet domestic demand.

Modi reminded citizens that in earlier times, Indians willingly contributed their gold during national crises. While no such sacrifice is being sought now, he said postponing jewellery purchases for a year would be a meaningful gesture in the national interest.

Patriotism Is Also About Responsibility

Referring to the ongoing disruption in global supply chains, Modi warned that if the crisis continues, challenges will keep growing despite any number of measures taken. He urged citizens to put the nation first and face the situation together with unity and resolve. PM Modi also stressed that patriotism is not only about sacrificing one’s life for the country. Living responsibly, performing one’s duties sincerely, and contributing to the nation’s progress are equally powerful expressions of patriotism.

Global Crisis and Economic Concerns

The Prime Minister noted that continuing disruptions in global supply chains could increase economic challenges. He said the government has been working for the past two months to shield citizens from the impact of the crisis and ensure that the burden does not fall entirely on the public.

Congress Criticises the Statement

The remarks drew sharp criticism from the Congress party. Congress General Secretary K. C. Venugopal accused the Prime Minister of shifting responsibility onto ordinary people instead of presenting a concrete strategy to strengthen India’s energy security.

In a post on X, Venugopal described the appeal as “utterly shameful, irresponsible, and completely unethical.” He said the government should focus on an emergency plan to protect the economy rather than asking citizens to alter their personal spending habits.

A Message That Has Triggered Debate

Modi’s call to avoid gold purchases has generated mixed reactions. Supporters see it as a patriotic step to reduce unnecessary imports, while critics argue that policy measures, not public appeals, are needed to address economic risks.

As uncertainty in the global economy continues, the Prime Minister’s remarks have placed the spotlight on how individual choices can influence the nation’s financial health.