Urges CMs to ensure smooth supply chains; For harsh action against hoarding, profiteering
New Delhi, Mar 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday 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 the Middle East and its potential impact on India.
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the valuable 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. He underscored that the same spirit of cooperation remains India’s greatest strength in navigating the present circumstances.
The Prime Minister highlighted that an Inter-Ministerial Group has been operational since March 3, reviewing the situation on a daily basis. He stressed that the Government’s priorities are to maintain economic and trade stability, ensure energy security, safeguard citizens’ interests, and strengthen supply chains.
He urged States to ensure smooth functioning of supply chains and take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering. He highlighted the importance of activating control rooms at State and District levels and maintaining administrative alertness to prevent disruptions.
The Prime Minister also stressed the need for advance planning in the agriculture sector, particularly monitoring fertiliser storage and distribution, so that farmers do not face difficulties during the upcoming Kharif season. He cautioned against the spread of misinformation and rumours, stating that timely dissemination of accurate information is essential to prevent panic.
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. He also called for accelerating efforts in promoting alternative energy sources such as biofuels, solar energy, electric mobility and expanding piped natural gas connections.
He 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.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that the government has been working actively under the Prime Minister’s leadership, taking positive steps such as ensuring timely availability of LPG and reducing excise duties on petrol and diesel.
Chief Ministers appreciated the steps taken by the Central Government and praised the Prime Minister’s diplomatic outreach to different countries to ensure the well-being of Indian citizens abroad. They widely welcomed the decision to reduce excise duty on fuel and the increase in commercial LPG allocation to States and Union Territories to 70 percent of pre-crisis levels, up from 50 per cent.
