NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a video conference with chief ministers and lieutenant governors to review preparedness for any impact on India from the emerging situation in West Asia, as the federal government moved to reassure states on fuel availability, supply chains and economic stability. Modi said the government’s priorities were to maintain economic and trade stability, ensure energy security, safeguard citizens and strengthen industry and supply chains, according to an official statement issued after the meeting.
Modi said the situation remained dynamic and required continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies. He said an inter-ministerial group had been operational since March 3 and was reviewing developments daily while taking timely decisions. He thanked chief ministers for their suggestions and said coordinated action would be essential in addressing the challenges ahead. The prime minister also referred to India’s experience during the Covid-19 pandemic, saying cooperation between the Centre and the states remained a core strength in handling periods of disruption.
He said effective implementation of decisions would take place at the state level and called for constant communication between the Centre and the states, timely information sharing and joint decision-making. Modi urged states to ensure the smooth functioning of supply chains and take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering. He also called for activation of control rooms at the state and district levels and said advance planning was needed in the agriculture sector, particularly in monitoring fertilizer storage and distribution ahead of the Kharif season.
Supply safeguards and monitoring
The prime minister cautioned against misinformation and rumours and said accurate and credible information must be shared promptly to prevent panic. He also urged vigilance against online frauds and fake agents. Border and coastal states were asked to pay special attention to any emerging challenges related to shipping, essential supplies and maritime operations. States with citizens in West Asia were advised to activate helplines, appoint nodal officers and establish district-level support systems for affected families.
Modi said maintaining public confidence was important and that clear assurance on the availability of essential commodities would help prevent unnecessary panic. He called for continued engagement with industry and micro, small and medium enterprises to address concerns related to production and employment. He also stressed the need for regular reviews at the level of chief secretaries and continuous monitoring at the district level. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh told the meeting that the government had ensured timely LPG availability and reduced excise duties on petrol and diesel, while Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan presented current conditions and recommendations for the states.
Fuel relief and long-term measures
Chief ministers said the situation remained stable in their states, with adequate supplies of petrol, diesel and LPG and monitoring systems in place to maintain uninterrupted availability of essential commodities. They welcomed the decision to reduce excise duty on fuel, saying it would provide relief to citizens amid global uncertainty. They also welcomed the increase in commercial LPG allocation to states and union territories to 70% of pre-crisis levels from 50%, and said they would continue to work closely with the Centre.
Modi also called for a parallel focus on immediate response and long-term preparedness. He urged states to accelerate efforts to promote biofuels, solar energy, the GOBARdhan initiative, electric mobility and the expansion of piped natural gas connections. He also highlighted the need to enhance domestic exploration of oil and natural gas with the cooperation of states. The prime minister said addressing the challenge was a shared responsibility and expressed confidence that the country would overcome the situation by working together as Team India. – By Content Syndication Services.