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 from recent developments in West Asia and its potential impact on India.

The Prime Minister appreciated the suggestions shared by Chief Ministers, noting that these inputs would help 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 handling 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, and underscored that the same spirit of cooperation remains India’s greatest strength in navigating the present circumstances.

Highlighting that the situation remains dynamic, the Prime Minister said continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies are essential. He noted that an Inter-Ministerial Group has been operational since March 3, reviewing the situation daily and taking timely decisions. He stressed that the government’s priorities are to maintain economic and trade stability, ensure energy security, safeguard citizens’ interests, and strengthen industry and supply chains.

Emphasising the critical role of States, the Prime Minister noted that effective implementation takes place at the state level. He called for constant communication and coordination between the Centre and States, timely sharing of information, and joint decision-making for swift and aligned responses.

He urged States to ensure smooth functioning of supply chains and take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering. He highlighted the need to activate control rooms at State and district levels and maintain administrative alertness to prevent disruptions. He also stressed advance planning in the agriculture sector, particularly monitoring fertiliser storage and distribution to avoid difficulties for farmers during the upcoming Kharif season.

The Prime Minister cautioned against misinformation and rumours, stressing the importance of timely dissemination of accurate information to prevent panic. He also advised vigilance against online frauds and fake agents and called for special attention in border and coastal states to address challenges related to shipping, essential supplies and maritime operations.

He underscored the importance of maintaining public confidence, noting that assurance regarding availability of essential commodities would help prevent panic. He 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 information flow.

The Prime Minister said recent efforts to strengthen India’s economic and supply systems are proving beneficial in the current context and called for continued engagement with industry and MSMEs to ensure stability in production and employment. He also emphasised robust coordination mechanisms at all levels, including regular reviews by Chief Secretaries and continuous district-level monitoring.

Calling for parallel focus on immediate response and long-term preparedness, the Prime Minister urged 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 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 country will successfully overcome the situation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that the government has been working actively 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. He emphasised the need for collective action by states, union territories and the Centre.

Cabinet Secretary T. V. Somanathan gave a presentation on the current situation and outlined steps and recommendations for States.

© The Kashmir Monitor News