March 27, New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today chaired a meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of States via video conferencing to review preparedness in light of the emerging situation arising out of recent developments in West Asia and its potential impact on India.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the suggestions shared by all Chief Ministers, noting that these inputs would be instrumental in effectively managing the evolving situation. He emphasised the need for vigilance, preparedness, and coordinated action to address the challenges ahead.
Referring to the ongoing situation in West Asia, the Prime Minister said India has prior experience in dealing with similar global disruptions. He recalled the collective response during the Covid-19 pandemic, when the Centre and States worked together as "Team India" to mitigate the impact on supply chains, trade, and daily life, underscoring that the same spirit of cooperation and coordination remains India's strength.
He highlighted that the situation remains dynamic, requiring continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies. He noted that an Inter-Ministerial Group has been operational since 3 March, reviewing the situation daily and taking timely decisions. The Government’s priorities, he said, are to maintain economic and trade stability, ensure energy security, safeguard citizens’ interests, and strengthen industry and supply chains.
Emphasising the role of States, the Prime Minister said effective implementation of decisions takes place at the State level and called for constant communication and coordination between the Centre and States, along with timely sharing of information and joint decision-making for swift and aligned responses.
He urged States to ensure smooth functioning of supply chains and to take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering. He also highlighted the importance of activating control rooms at State and District levels and maintaining administrative alertness to prevent disruptions. He stressed advance planning in the agriculture sector, particularly monitoring fertiliser storage and distribution, to avoid difficulties during the upcoming Kharif season.
The Prime Minister cautioned against misinformation and rumours, stating that timely dissemination of accurate and credible information is essential to prevent panic. He advised vigilance against online frauds and fake agents, and called for special attention in border and coastal States to address emerging challenges related to shipping, essential supplies, and maritime operations.
He underscored the importance of maintaining public confidence by ensuring the availability of essential commodities. He also suggested that States with citizens in West Asia activate helplines, appoint nodal officers, and establish district-level support systems to assist affected families and ensure timely information flow.
The Prime Minister noted that recent efforts to strengthen India’s economic and supply systems are proving beneficial in the current context. He called for continued engagement with industry and MSMEs to address concerns and ensure stability in production and employment. He emphasised robust coordination mechanisms at all levels, including regular reviews by Chief Secretaries and continuous district-level monitoring.
He called for a dual focus on immediate response and long-term preparedness, urging States to accelerate promotion of alternative energy sources such as biofuels, solar energy, the GOBARdhan initiative, electric mobility, and expansion of piped natural gas connections. He also highlighted the need to enhance domestic exploration of oil and natural gas with active cooperation from States.
Prime Minister reiterated that addressing the challenge is a shared responsibility and expressed confidence that, working together as “Team India,” the nation will successfully overcome the situation.
During the meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that the government has been working under the leadership of the Prime Minister to tackle the crisis, including ensuring timely availability of LPG and reducing excise duties on petrol and diesel, and stressed the need for collective action by the Centre, States, and Union Territories.
Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan presented an overview of the current situation and outlined steps and recommendations for States. Chief Ministers appreciated the steps taken by the Central Government and the Prime Minister’s diplomatic outreach to other countries to ensure the well-being of Indian citizens abroad. They expressed confidence that the situation remains stable, with adequate availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG, and continuous monitoring mechanisms to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.
They welcomed the reduction in excise duty on fuel, noting it will provide relief to citizens amid global uncertainties, and also welcomed the increase in commercial LPG allocation to 70% of pre-crisis levels from 50%. Chief Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to work in close coordination with the Centre to effectively manage the evolving situation and safeguard citizens’ interests.