No Lockdown, But ‘Team India’ on Alert: PM Modi Invokes COVID Playbook Amid West Asia Crisis
States reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the Centre to manage the evolving situation effectively and ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday chaired a high-level meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors to review India’s preparedness in light of the evolving situation in West Asia, stressing coordinated action to safeguard economic stability, energy security, and supply chains.
The Prime Minister underscored that the situation remains dynamic and requires constant monitoring, adaptive strategies, and strong Centre–State coordination. He highlighted that an inter-ministerial group has been reviewing developments daily since early March to ensure timely decision-making.
Calling for a “Team India” approach, Modi drew parallels with the coordinated response during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that collective action had proven effective in managing disruptions to supply chains and trade.
The government’s immediate priorities, he said, include maintaining economic and trade stability, ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies, protecting citizens’ interests, and supporting industry and supply networks. States were urged to play a proactive role in implementation, with emphasis on seamless communication and information sharing.
Focus on Supply Chains, Agriculture, and Public Confidence
The Prime Minister directed states to ensure smooth functioning of supply chains and take strict action against hoarding and profiteering. He called for activation of control rooms at state and district levels and heightened administrative vigilance to prevent disruptions.
Special attention was placed on agriculture preparedness, particularly monitoring fertiliser availability and distribution ahead of the Kharif season. Modi also stressed the importance of maintaining public confidence through transparent communication on the availability of essential commodities.
He cautioned against misinformation and online fraud, urging authorities to ensure dissemination of credible information and prevent panic among citizens.
Border, Coastal States and Global Linkages
Border and coastal states were asked to remain particularly vigilant regarding shipping, maritime operations, and essential supplies. The Prime Minister also suggested that states with citizens in West Asia activate helplines and support systems to assist affected families.
He highlighted the need for continued engagement with industry and MSMEs to ensure stability in production and employment, while also advocating long-term resilience through alternative energy expansion, including biofuels, solar power, electric mobility, and piped natural gas.
States Welcome Measures, Reaffirm Cooperation
Chief Ministers broadly expressed confidence that the situation remains stable, citing adequate availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG. They welcomed the Centre’s decision to reduce excise duty on fuel and increase commercial LPG allocation, noting these steps would ease pressure on citizens amid global uncertainties.
States reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the Centre to manage the evolving situation effectively and ensure uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.
The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating that addressing the challenges posed by global developments is a shared responsibility and expressed confidence that India will navigate the situation successfully through coordinated efforts.
