Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday chaired a virtual meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of States and Union Territories to assess the country’s preparedness in view of the evolving situation in West Asia and its potential repercussions on India.
The meeting, held via video conferencing, focused on maintaining economic and trade stability, ensuring energy security, protecting citizens’ interests, and strengthening industry and supply chains amid global disruptions caused by the conflict.
Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence that India, working together as “Team India,” would successfully navigate the challenges. He drew parallels with the collective response during the Covid-19 pandemic and highlighted the ongoing daily reviews by an Inter-Ministerial Group since March 3.
“Effective implementation happens at the State level,” the Prime Minister said, urging constant coordination between the Centre and States. He called for strict measures against hoarding and profiteering, activation of control rooms at state and district levels, and advance planning in agriculture, especially monitoring fertiliser storage and distribution ahead of the Kharif season.
Special attention was advised for border and coastal states regarding shipping, essential supplies, and maritime operations. PM Modi also cautioned against the spread of misinformation and rumours, stressing the timely dissemination of accurate information to prevent panic. He suggested that states with citizens in West Asia set up helplines and nodal officers for family support.
The government has already taken proactive steps, including reducing excise duty on petrol and diesel and increasing commercial LPG allocation to states and UTs to 70% of pre-crisis levels (from 50%). Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted these measures during the meeting.
Chief Ministers appreciated the Centre’s leadership and diplomatic efforts to ensure the well-being of Indian citizens abroad. They expressed confidence in the stable availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG in their states and welcomed the fuel duty cuts and enhanced LPG quota as timely relief for citizens amid global uncertainties.
The CMs reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination with the Centre for effective management of the situation.
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan gave a detailed presentation on the current scenario and recommendations for states.
Prime Minister Modi urged accelerated efforts towards alternative energy sources, including biofuels, solar energy, the GOBARdhan initiative, electric mobility, and expanded piped natural gas connections. He also emphasised enhancing domestic exploration of oil and natural gas with state cooperation.
The meeting underscored a dual focus on immediate response and long-term preparedness, with robust coordination mechanisms at all levels for swift action.
