New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the global situation arising out of the West Asia conflict remains dynamic, and asserted that maintaining economic and trade stability, ensuring energy security, strengthening industry and supply chains, and safeguarding citizens’ interests remain the government’s top priorities.
Chairing a meeting of chief ministers virtually to review preparedness in light of the emerging situation arising out of recent developments in West Asia and its potential impact on India, PM Modi said the situation necessitates continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies, as he called for constant communication and coordination between the Centre and the states, along with timely sharing of information and joint decision-making, so that the responses are swift and well-aligned.
Urging the chief ministers to ensure the smooth functioning of supply chains and to take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering, Modi cautioned against the spread of misinformation and rumours, asserting that timely dissemination of accurate and credible information is essential to prevent panic.
Referring to the situation in West Asia, the Prime Minister said India has prior experience in dealing with similar global disruptions, recalling the collective response during the Covid-19 pandemic, when the Centre and states worked together as ‘Team India’ to mitigate the impacts on supply chains, trade and daily life.
The same spirit of cooperation and coordination remains India’s greatest strength in navigating the present situation, Modi said.
The Prime Minister added that the situation remains dynamic, necessitating continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies, an official statement said.
He also said an inter-ministerial group has been operational since March 3, reviewing the situation on a daily basis and taking timely decisions.
Modi stressed that maintaining economic and trade stability, ensuring energy security, protecting the interests of the citizens, and strengthening the industry and supply chains remain the government’s main priorities.
He also advised vigilance against online fraud and fake agents and called for special attention in the border and coastal states to address any emerging challenges related to shipping, essential supplies, and maritime operations.
Modi underscored the importance of maintaining public confidence, noting that assurance about the availability of essential commodities will help prevent unnecessary panic among citizens. He further suggested that States with citizens in West Asia should activate helplines, appoint nodal officers, and establish district-level support systems to assist affected families and ensure timely flow of information.
During the discussion, the Prime Minister stated that efforts undertaken in recent years 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 their concerns and ensure stability in production and employment. He also emphasised the need for robust coordination mechanisms at all levels, including regular reviews at the level of Chief Secretaries and continuous monitoring at the district level, to enable quick response to evolving situations.
Modi called for a parallel focus on immediate response and long-term preparedness. He urged States to accelerate efforts in promoting alternative energy sources such as biofuels, solar energy, GOBARdhan initiative, electric mobility, as well as expanding piped natural gas connections. He also highlighted the importance of enhancing domestic exploration of oil and natural gas, with active cooperation from States.
The 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.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel, Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu, and all those present in the meeting appreciated the steps taken by the central government under the leadership of Prime Minister to tackle the situation, PMO said.
They also praised the diplomatic outreach of Prime Minister to different countries amidst this crisis to ensure the well being of Indian citizens abroad.
The Chief Ministers expressed confidence that the situation remains stable, with adequate availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG, and continuous monitoring mechanisms in place to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities. They widely welcomed the decision to reduce excise duty on fuel, noting that it will provide significant relief to citizens amid global uncertainties.
They also welcomed the decision to increase commercial LPG allocation to states and union territories to 70 percent of pre-crisis levels, up from 50 percent. They reaffirmed commitment to work in close coordination with the Centre to effectively manage the evolving situation and safeguard the interests of citizens, PMO added.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah were also present during the crucial meeting.
