New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday evening chaired a meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of states and Union Territories to review the country’s preparedness amid the four-week-old conflict in the Middle East, triggered by the war between US-Israel and Iran.
The meeting, held via video conferencing, was aimed at assessing the impact of the disturbing developments in the Gulf region on supply chains, energy security and essential commodities.
Stressing on the need for vigilance, coordination and swift response to challenges, Modi expressed confidence that the country will successfully negotiate the crisis by working together as ‘Team India’.
Modi spoke about India’s collective response during the COVID-19 six years ago, when the Centre and state governments managed disruptions to supply chai
ns, trade and daily life through coordinated efforts.
The Prime Minister observed that the situation in Middle East remained dynamic, and the need of the hour was continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies. He pointed out that that an Inter-Ministerial Group, functioning since March 3, has been conducting daily reviews and taking timely decisions.
The Central government’s main priorities are maintaining economic and trade stability, ensuring energy security, safeguarding interests of citizens and strengthening industry and supply chains.
Modi urged states and UTs to ensure smooth functioning of supply chains and take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering.
The Prime Minister directed the CMs and LGs to have control rooms activated at state and district levels.
Modi stressed the need for advance planning in agriculture sector, especially monitoring fertiliser storage and distribution so that farmers don’t face problems ahead of the upcoming Kharif season.
PM Modi also cautioned against misinformation and rumours being spread, to prevent panic among the public.
He advised special attention for border and coastal states to address challenges related to shipping, essential supplies and maritime operations.