Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for expanding energy access in India, stating that more people have gained access to energy under Modi’s leadership than in any decade, region or country in human history. Albanese made the remarks at an Asia Society Policy Institute event, highlighting the strengthening relationship between India and Australia.

The comments come amid global energy security concerns, particularly following disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz due to the war involving the US, Israel and Iran. While countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh have faced energy shortages, India has maintained stable supplies with only a limited increase in fuel prices. Albanese attributed this stability to India’s diversified energy import sources.

In May, Modi addressed the Lok Sabha during the budget session, stating that India had expanded its energy import sources from 27 countries to 41. "Previously, India used to import energy from 27 countries, now the figure has risen to 41," Modi said, adding that continuous efforts are being made to ensure smooth petrol and diesel supply across the country.

The government has also reviewed the impact of the West Asia conflict on the economy, supply chains and essential commodities, and discussed measures to minimize disruptions for citizens and businesses. In April, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India continues to source oil from a diversified set of countries, considering the energy security needs of 1.4 billion people and global market conditions.

"We continue to buy oil from diversified sources, keeping in mind the energy security needs of 1.4 billion people, the current situation in the international market, and the global situation we have to deal with," Jaiswal said during an inter-ministerial briefing on developments in West Asia.

The exact number of people who have gained energy access under Modi’s leadership remains unclear, as the claim is based on a single statement from Albanese without supporting data or figures. The Indian government has not released statistics on the expansion of energy access or the number of people benefiting from it.

The claim by Albanese is significant as it positions Modi’s energy policies as a global benchmark, potentially influencing international perceptions of India’s economic and developmental achievements. However, without independent verification or data from Indian authorities, the claim remains unproven. The lack of a response from India’s side raises questions about the transparency and accountability of the government’s energy policies and their impact on the population.