New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired the second special meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review measures being taken by various ministries and departments in view of the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
The high-level meeting, held at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, focused on ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, fuel, fertilisers and electricity, while also discussing steps to minimise the impact of the crisis on citizens and key sectors of the economy.
According to officials, the Cabinet Secretary briefed the CCS on measures taken to ensure adequate availability of petroleum products, particularly Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), as well as sufficient power supply.
The government has diversified sources of LPG procurement, with fresh supplies being sourced from several countries. Similarly, LNG imports are also being arranged from alternative international suppliers.
Officials informed the meeting that domestic LPG prices have remained unchanged despite the crisis. The government is also carrying out anti-diversion drives and regular enforcement measures to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG.
The CCS also reviewed measures to expand Piped Natural Gas connections and maintain adequate electricity supply during the peak summer months.
Officials said gas-based power plants with a capacity of 7-8 GW have been exempted from the gas pooling mechanism, while additional coal rakes are being deployed to thermal power stations. The government said sufficient coal stocks are available to meet power demand in the coming months.
The meeting also discussed possible interventions in agriculture, fertilisers, civil aviation, shipping, logistics and MSMEs to address emerging challenges arising from the conflict.
To ensure uninterrupted fertiliser supply, the government is maintaining urea production and coordinating with overseas suppliers for DAP and NPK fertilisers.
State governments have been asked to take strict action against hoarding, black marketing and diversion of fertilisers through daily monitoring, raids and enforcement.
Officials said retail prices of food commodities have remained stable over the past month. Control rooms have been set up for continuous monitoring of prices and coordination with states and Union Territories under the Essential Commodities Act.
The prices of agricultural products, vegetables and fruits are also being monitored to prevent any sudden increase.
The government is also working to diversify sources of energy, fertilisers and other supply chains globally, while pursuing diplomatic initiatives to secure safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
Officials said enhanced coordination, real-time communication and proactive measures are being undertaken at the central, state and district levels to improve information dissemination and public awareness.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi reviewed the availability of essential commodities for the common man and discussed steps to ensure adequate fertiliser supply during the upcoming Kharif and Rabi seasons.
The Prime Minister directed all departments to take every possible measure to protect citizens from the impact of the conflict and minimise difficulties faced by affected sectors.
He also stressed the need for timely dissemination of authentic information to prevent misinformation and rumours amid the evolving situation.
