Actor Kamal Haasan has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, saying India’s solar and wind energy capacity has increased significantly over the last decade.
In a video message, Haasan said he was speaking as an Indian amid concerns over the impact of the Iran war. He pointed to rising oil prices and disruptions to sea trade routes, warning that costs are increasing for household energy needs, fertilisers used in agriculture, and fuel for factories and vehicles.
Haasan noted that several countries have introduced measures related to fuel reserves, and said India too must respond responsibly. He said national duty should rise above party politics, recalling past instances when citizens were asked to contribute during crises, while adding that India is not being asked for such sacrifices today.
Calling for practical steps, he urged citizens to make small savings in energy use and said recent investments in coal-to-gas transition, renewable energy and nuclear power were encouraging. He also said governments must share the burden, requesting the Prime Minister to convene a national summit with all chief ministers.
Haasan proposed two immediate measures: reducing state taxes including VAT on petrol and diesel, and cutting fares for rail, metro and bus services so more people shift to public transport. He said every unit of energy saved would strengthen India and every drop of oil saved would help protect poorer Indians from inflation.
