Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned at the NDTV World Summit in New Delhi on 27 September 2026 that trade, technology and sea routes are being weaponised amid the US‑Iran conflict.
Modi invoked the ancient Indian economist Chanakya, quoting the Sanskrit mantra 'apranitah tu matsyanyayam udbhavayati', translating to 'when the law of punishment is kept in abeyance, it gives rise to Matsya Nyaya', a warning that the strong will swallow the weak.
He highlighted India’s pandemic response, noting that the country shipped vaccines to every nation in need and supplied medicines to more than 100 countries, arguing that such cooperation should extend beyond crises.
Modi also outlined his Viksit Bharat vision, claiming that by 2024 India would be a developed nation that offers a guarantee of a better world, and that this ambition is meant to provide a stronger voice for the Global South.
Concluding his speech, Modi urged the United Nations to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and called on member states to collaborate more effectively, saying India will lead the way to prevent future 'Matsya Nyaya'.