Geopolitical upheaval costs nations, leading to prolonged uncertainty and human sufferings which get compounded by a food and energy crisis. The fragility of West Asia’s economy is attributed to the devastating US-Israel-Iran war which has caught humanity in an overt manifestation of a sociopolitical crisis and asymmetric power dynamics. Truly the “world is at war”. The implications of this geopolitical crisis are far reaching. Can Indian society insulate itself? In fact, ordinary citizens have already started experiencing the downside of this chaotic phase.

The raging war is marked by uncertainty and mistrust. Multiple ceasefire declarations have been made and violated. The combined LPG and LNG import bill has increased by about 50 per cent over the last six years constituting around 3 per cent of India’s total import bill in FY 2025. India imports about 60 per cent of its LPG consumption and out of these imports about 90 per cent come through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been impacted due to current geopolitical situation and disruptions in supply chains. While the government is trying to increase its domestic production by 25 per cent, it appears a tall order and this will take time. The sight of bus and railway stations of India tell a story that we have all witnessed before.

Labourers and domestic workers are thronging these places to head back ‘home’ – akin to the Covid days – albeit this time it is the ongoing energy crisis that is driving them there. The sense of belonging to their homeland beckons them as it gives a strong sense of safety. They feel fellow villagers will help them out with food and there is no dearth of alternative fuel – firewood in abundance. For many, the free cylinders distributed under........

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