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S Jaishankar addresses the importance of strong leadership with News18
Mumbai: Foreign minister S Jaishankar has emphasized the importance of presenting the ten-year record of the Modi government to the public so to instil confidence among voters and likened this record to an insurance policy, stating that it serves as evidence of Modi’s commitments and achievements.
In an exclusive interview with News18, S Jaishankar addressed the significance of strong leadership in navigating global challenges, citing the need for experienced leadership in times of tension and conflict worldwide. He noted the growing interest among voters in foreign policy matters, reflecting on his extensive interactions across various states.
Responding to queries about managing news flow, Jaishankar explained the structured approach of the ministry, including the establishment of situation and control rooms during crises. He underscored the importance of swift decision-making and adherence to standard operating procedures (SOP’s) in handling emergencies.
Speaking about his career choices, Jaishankar revealed his initial
preference for the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) due to his academic background and interest in international affairs. He acknowledged the accessibility and popularity he enjoys among the youth, attributing it to his relaxed demeanor and commitment to public service.
Addressing criticism of government functioning, Jaishankar emphasized
the inclusive decision-making process under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He highlighted the collaborative approach in cabinet meetings and foreign tours, where every voice is heard and valued.
Regarding the issue of Muslim reservation raised by Congress, Jaishankar criticized the party’s approach, likening its manifesto to a blend of Muslim League and Maoist ideologies. He asserted the Prime Minister’s stance against reservation based on religion, highlighting the government’s commitment to equality.
Jaishankar’s remarks drew attention to the ongoing debate over the reservation policy, particularly in Karnataka, where the Congress government has proposed a four per cent quota for Muslims. He emphasized the need for clarity and consistency in addressing social and economic disparities without resorting to divisive measures.
On Rahul Gandhi’s comments about Indian democracy being in danger
during his overseas visits, Jaishankar expressed disappointment, urging politicians to refrain from airing domestic grievances abroad. He cautioned against inviting external interference in India’s internal affairs, citing historical precedents and emphasizing the importance of maintaining national unity.
Addressing Rahul Gandhi’s assertions about Chinese encroachments,
Jaishankar refuted claims of silence, highlighting historical context and infrastructure developments. He clarified misconceptions surrounding China’s activities in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, citing past instances of border disputes and emphasizing the government’s commitment to border negotiations.
Switching to election dynamics, Jaishankar commented on the possibility of achieving a substantial victory margin. He dismissed opposition skepticism, expressing confidence in voter turnout and the Modi government’s track record. Jaishankar projected optimism for reaching 400 mark electoral milestone, attributing it to public trust and the government’s proactive governance approach.
Reflecting on international election observation, Jaishankar welcomed foreign interest in India’s electoral processes, affirming positive intentions behind such engagements. He underscored the importance of
transparent electoral practices and dismissed foreign media criticisms
as uninformed perspectives.
In discussing language preferences, Jaishankar emphasized the natural
evolution of language usage, particularly in political discourse. He highlighted the BJP government’s emphasis on Hindi, aligning with the linguistic preferences of many leaders and constituents.
Regarding election turnout and Microsoft’s warnings of potential
interference, Jaishankar expressed confidence in India’s robust electoral system while acknowledging the challenges posed by advancements in technology.
Addressing allegations of EVM tampering and border tensions, Jaishankar debunked misconceptions and provided historical context, emphasizing the government’s efforts to strengthen border infrastructure and resolve disputes diplomatically.
In response to queries about India’s global standing, Jaishankar highlighted the country’s resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic growth trajectory. He emphasized India’s role as a civilization power and the need to assert its cultural identity on the world stage.
Regarding the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal and other contentious issues raised by a newspaper based in England, Jaishankar emphasized the primacy of law and elections. He dismissed suggestions that legal proceedings should be halted during election periods, citing international norms and urging consistency in legal enforcement.
On the topic of intruder killings, Jaishankar offered a blunt
assessment of Pakistan’s role in fostering terrorism. He suggested that individuals engaging in illicit activities should face consequences, regardless of their location, underscoring the need for accountability.
Shifting the conversation to lighter topics and when inquired about Jaishankar’s holiday plans. Jaishankar, downplayed the notion of vacations under Modi’s governance, emphasizing his dedication to duty.
Pointing to his previous visit to Kashmir, he expressed interest in exploring Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, citing its burgeoning tourism industry and historical significance.
Jaishankar expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, citing faith in the Modi government’s track record and commitment to fulfilling promises. He underscored the importance of presenting a strong and stable government to address the aspirations of the Indian populace.
News Broadcasting
Induction cooktop demand spikes 30× amid LPG supply concerns
Supply worries linked to West Asia tensions push households and restaurants to turn to electric cooking alternatives
MUMBAI: As geopolitical tensions in West Asia ripple through global energy supply chains, the familiar blue flame in Indian kitchens is facing an unexpected challenger: electricity.
What began as concerns over the availability of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has quickly evolved into a technology-driven shift in cooking habits. Households across India are increasingly turning to induction cooktops and other electric appliances, initially as a backup but now, for many, a necessity.
A sudden surge in demand
Recent data from quick-commerce and grocery platform BigBasket highlights the scale of the shift. According to Seshu Kumar Tirumala, the company’s chief buying and merchandising officer, demand for induction cooktops has risen dramatically.
“Induction cooktops have seen a significant surge in demand, recording a fivefold jump on 10 March and a thirtyfold spike on 11 March,” Tirumala said.
The increase stands out sharply when compared with broader kitchen appliance trends. Most appliance categories are growing within 10 per cent of their typical demand levels, while induction cooktops have witnessed explosive growth as households rush to secure an alternative cooking option.
Major e-commerce platforms including Amazon and Flipkart have reported rising searches and orders for induction stoves. Quick-commerce apps such as Blinkit and Zepto have also witnessed stock shortages in major metropolitan areas including Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
What was once considered a convenient appliance for hostels, small kitchens or occasional use has suddenly become an essential addition in many homes.
A crisis thousands of miles away
The trigger for this shift lies far beyond India’s kitchens.
Escalating conflict in the Middle East has disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. Nearly 85 to 90 per cent of India’s LPG imports pass through this narrow waterway, making the country particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions.
The ripple effects have been swift.
India currently meets roughly 60 per cent of its LPG demand through imports, and tightening global supply has already begun to affect domestic availability and prices.
Earlier this month, the price of domestic LPG cylinders increased by Rs 60, while commercial cylinders rose by more than Rs 114.
To discourage panic buying and hoarding, the government has also extended the mandatory waiting period between domestic refill bookings from 21 days to 25 days.
Restaurants feel the pressure
The strain is not limited to households. Restaurants, hotels and roadside eateries are also grappling with supply constraints as commercial LPG availability tightens under restrictions imposed through the Essential Commodities Act.
In cities such as Bengaluru and Chennai, restaurant associations report that commercial LPG availability has dropped by as much as 75 per cent, forcing many establishments to rethink their kitchen operations.
Some restaurants have reduced menu offerings, while others are rapidly installing high-efficiency induction systems, creating hybrid kitchens where electricity now shares the workload with gas.
For smaller eateries and roadside dhabas, the shift is less about sustainability and more about survival.
A potential structural shift
The government has maintained that there is no nationwide LPG crisis and has directed refineries to increase production to stabilise supply.
Nevertheless, the developments of March 2026 may already be triggering a longer-term behavioural shift.
For decades, LPG has been the backbone of cooking in Indian households. However, recent disruptions have highlighted the risks of relying on a single fuel source.
Increasingly, households appear to be hedging against uncertainty by adopting electric cooking options to guard against price volatility and delivery delays.
If the current trend continues, the induction cooktop, once viewed as a niche appliance, could emerge as a quiet symbol of India’s evolving kitchen economy.
