Modi Chairs Security Meet on West Asia Crisis Impact, Reviews Essential Supplies

This was the second such high-level review meeting since the conflict erupted on February 28, 2026.

The meeting focused on ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential commodities and mitigating challenges arising from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade.

Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan briefed the committee on steps taken by various Ministries to secure petroleum products, particularly LPG and LNG, as well as adequate power availability during the upcoming summer months.

Key decisions and reviews included diversifying sources for LPG and LNG procurement from new countries, maintaining domestic LPG prices for consumers, and strengthening anti-hoarding and anti-black marketing drives.

Initiatives to expand Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections were also discussed.

For the power sector, measures such as exempting 7-8 GW of gas-based plants from pooling mechanisms and increasing coal rake movements to thermal power stations were highlighted.

Officials confirmed that sufficient coal stocks are available to meet power demands in the coming months.

Interventions for agriculture, fertilisers, civil aviation, shipping, logistics, and MSMEs were thoroughly examined.

To ensure fertiliser availability for the Kharif and Rabi seasons, the Union government is maintaining urea production levels and coordinating with overseas suppliers for Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP) and Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (NPK).

States have been directed to conduct daily monitoring, raids, and strict action against black-marketing and diversion of fertilisers.

Retail prices of food commodities, vegetables, and fruits have remained stable over the past month.

Control Rooms have been established for real-time monitoring and coordination with states and Union Territories on price stability and enforcement of the Essential Commodities Act.

Prime Minister Modi directed all departments to take every possible step to safeguard citizens from the West Asia conflict's impact and ensure the timely flow of authentic information to prevent misinformation and rumour-mongering.

He particularly assessed the availability of critical needs for the common man and emphasised smooth supply chains through global diversification of energy and fertiliser sources.

Diplomatic efforts to secure safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and enhanced coordination at central, state, and district levels were also reviewed.

The Union government remains committed to proactive measures that protect India's economic stability and the welfare of its people amid the uncertain global situation caused by the West Asia crisis.

- IANS