New Delhi, Mar 23 (KNN) Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security to review the ongoing West Asia conflict and assess mitigation measures across key sectors.
PM Modi directed the formation of a group of ministers and secretaries to ensure a coordinated, whole-of-government response, and also instructed sector-specific groups to engage with stakeholders.
The Cabinet Secretary presented a detailed overview of the global situation, along with the mitigating measures taken so far and those being planned by all concerned ministries and departments.
The meeting assessed potential impacts on sectors including agriculture, fertilisers, petroleum, power, MSMEs, trade, shipping, and supply chains. The overall macroeconomic outlook was also reviewed, with discussions on both immediate and long-term countermeasures to address disruptions.
The government conducted a detailed assessment of essential supplies such as food, fuel and energy. Measures to ensure their availability in the short, medium and long term were discussed.
Fertiliser availability for the upcoming Kharif season was also reviewed. Officials noted that existing stockpiles and past preparedness would help ensure timely supply, while alternative sourcing options are being explored.
Coal availability at power plants was assessed as adequate, indicating no immediate risk of electricity shortages.
Modi emphasised that the evolving conflict has global implications and instructed all departments to work together to minimise inconvenience to citizens. States have been asked to ensure strict action against hoarding and black marketing of essential commodities.
The meeting discussed plans to diversify import sources for key industries such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals. Efforts to expand export markets for Indian goods are also being planned.
Several proposals from ministries will be implemented in the coming days after stakeholder consultations.
(KNN Bureau)
