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Must work together as Team India: PM Modi to CMs on war impact

According to the statement, Modi urged the States to ensure the smooth functioning of supply chains and take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering.

modi meeting with cms (2)Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a video conference with Chief Ministers of States on the situation emerging in wake of the West Asia conflict.

Reviewing the potential impact, and the preparedness, in light of the West Asia conflict, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday told Chief Ministers that addressing the challenge is a “shared responsibility” and urged them to work together as “Team India” to “successfully overcome the situation”.

In a video conference with CMs and Lieutenant Governors of States and Union Territories — except those going to polls — Modi underlined that his government’s priorities were to maintain economic and trade stability, ensure energy security, safeguard the interests of citizens, and strengthen industry and supply chains.

“Referring to the ongoing situation in West Asia, the PM said India has prior experience in dealing with similar global disruption. 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 and coordination remains India’s greatest strength in navigating the present circumstances,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement after the meeting.

“PM highlighted that the situation remains dynamic, necessitating continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies. He said that an Inter-Ministerial Group has been operational since March 3, reviewing the situation on a daily basis and taking timely decisions,” it said.

“Emphasising the critical role of States, PM noted that effective implementation of decisions takes place at the State level. He called for constant communication and coordination between the Centre and States, along with timely sharing of information and joint decision-making, so that responses are swift and well-aligned,” it said.

According to the statement, Modi urged the States to ensure the smooth functioning of supply chains and take strict measures against hoarding and profiteering.

“PM cautioned against the spread of misinformation and rumours, stating that timely dissemination of accurate and credible information is essential to prevent panic. He also advised vigilance against online frauds and fake agents. PM called for special attention in border and coastal States to address any emerging challenges related to shipping, essential supplies, and maritime operations,” it said.

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“He highlighted the importance of activating control rooms at State and district levels and maintaining administrative alertness to prevent disruptions. He also stressed the need for advance planning in the agriculture sector, particularly in monitoring fertiliser storage and distribution, so that farmers do not face difficulties during the upcoming Kharif season,” it said.

“He underscored the importance of maintaining public confidence, noting that assurance regarding the availability of essential commodities would help prevent unnecessary panic among citizens. 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 and ensure timely flow of information,” the statement said.

“PM stated that efforts undertaken in recent years to strengthen India’s economic and supply systems are proving beneficial in the current context. He called for continued engagement with industry and MSMEs to address their concerns and ensure stability in production and employment. He also emphasised the need for robust coordination mechanisms at all levels, including regular reviews at the level of Chief Secretaries and continuous monitoring at the district level, to enable quick response to evolving situations,” it said.

“PM called for a parallel focus on immediate response and long-term preparedness. He urged States to accelerate efforts in promoting alternative energy sources such as biofuels, solar energy, GOBARdhan initiative, electric mobility, as well as expanding piped natural gas connections. He also highlighted the importance of enhancing domestic exploration of oil and natural gas, with active cooperation from States,” the statement said.

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“PM expressed his 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,” the PMO statement said, adding that the Chief Ministers praised Modi’s “diplomatic outreach… to ensure the well-being of Indian citizens abroad”.

Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan gave a presentation on the current situation and enumerated steps and recommendations for States to tackle the situation. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised that the government has been working “actively” to tackle the crisis, taking positive steps such as ensuring timely availability of LPG and reducing the excise duties on petrol and diesel. Home Minister Amit Shah was also present at the meeting.

Among those who attended the meeting were: Andaman and Nicobar L-G Admiral D K Joshi, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah, Telangana CM Revanth Reddy, Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai, Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini, Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel and Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu.

Harikishan Sharma, Senior Assistant Editor at The Indian Express' National Bureau, specializes in reporting on governance, policy, and data. He covers the Prime Minister’s Office and pivotal central ministries, such as the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Ministry of Cooperation, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Ministry of Rural Development, and Ministry of Jal Shakti. His work primarily revolves around reporting and policy analysis. In addition to this, he authors a weekly column titled "STATE-ISTICALLY SPEAKING," which is prominently featured on The Indian Express website. In this column, he immerses readers in narratives deeply rooted in socio-economic, political, and electoral data, providing insightful perspectives on these critical aspects of governance and society. ... Read More

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