Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while chairing a high-level meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors, outlined the government’s core priorities in response to the evolving situation in West Asia, emphasising the need for coordinated action and preparedness amid global uncertainty.
Addressing the meeting via video conferencing, he stressed that India must remain vigilant as the situation continues to change rapidly. He noted that an inter-ministerial group has been closely monitoring developments on a daily basis since early March, ensuring timely assessment and response.
The Prime Minister identified key focus areas for the government, including maintaining economic and trade stability, ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies, protecting citizens’ interests, and strengthening industrial capacity along with supply chains. These priorities, he said, are essential to minimise the domestic impact of global disruptions.
Recalling the collective response during the Covid-19 pandemic, Modi urged states to once again function as “Team India,” highlighting that close coordination between the Centre and states had previously helped reduce disruptions in supply chains and economic activity.
He called upon state governments to ensure the smooth functioning of supply systems and to take strict action against hoarding and profiteering. Emphasising administrative readiness, he directed states to activate control rooms at both state and district levels and remain alert to prevent any breakdown in essential services.
In the agriculture sector, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of advance planning, particularly with regard to fertiliser availability and distribution ahead of the upcoming Kharif season, so that farmers do not face any difficulties.
He also warned against the spread of misinformation and rumours, underlining the need for accurate and timely communication to prevent public panic. Additionally, he advised authorities to remain vigilant against online fraud and exploitation by fake agents.
Special attention, he noted, should be given to border and coastal states, especially in managing shipping operations, maritime logistics, and the supply of essential goods.
The Prime Minister further directed states to establish helplines and support mechanisms for Indian citizens residing in West Asia, ensuring that affected families receive timely assistance and information.
Looking beyond immediate challenges, Modi emphasised long-term preparedness, calling for accelerated efforts in alternative energy sources such as solar power, biofuels, and electric mobility, along with expanding piped natural gas infrastructure and boosting domestic exploration of oil and gas.
During the meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh outlined measures taken by the Centre, including steps to ensure adequate LPG availability and a reduction in excise duty on petrol and diesel. Chief Ministers expressed confidence in the government’s handling of the situation and noted that fuel supplies remain stable.
The West Asia conflict has begun to impact India’s economy and energy sector, with rising crude oil prices prompting government intervention. Excise duties on petrol and diesel have been reduced to cushion consumers, while export duties on certain fuels have been adjusted to prioritise domestic availability.
Despite global disruptions, authorities have maintained that there is no shortage of fuel, with sufficient stock reserves and alternative sourcing arrangements in place. However, financial markets have shown signs of strain, with benchmark indices such as the Sensex and Nifty declining amid rising geopolitical tensions and oil price volatility.
