Modi directs top brass: Protect civilians, safeguard India’s energy supply amid West Asia turmoil
New Delhi, July 30: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the fourth special meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Thursday to review the ongoing conflict situation in West Asia. At the meeting, he directed the establishment of a coordinated mechanism for the safety of Indian citizens and NRIs, maintaining energy and fertilizer supplies, and regularly monitoring the situation.
During the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan briefed the meeting on the current geopolitical situation in West Asia and the steps taken by various ministries. He stated that necessary steps have been taken to ensure adequate availability of LNG, LPG, and fertilizers. Sources for LPG procurement have been diversified, and stocks and supplies of key petroleum products remain normal. Due to the availability of adequate crude oil, public sector refineries are operating at over 100% capacity, ensuring uninterrupted supplies of petrol, diesel, and other petroleum products.
The meeting reviewed fertilizer requirements for the upcoming Rabi season and discussed alternative sources. The Prime Minister directed that all necessary steps be taken to ensure uninterrupted supply of fertilizers to farmers. The situation of Indian seafarers working on domestic and foreign ships in conflict-affected areas was also discussed. The Prime Minister directed the development of a special mechanism to provide timely information, emergency assistance, and counseling to them and their families.
The Prime Minister said that every effort should be made to ensure that the situation in West Asia does not impact Indian citizens and NRIs. He also emphasized the need to promote renewable and other non-fossil fuel-based energy sources, including solar energy, to strengthen energy self-reliance.
Modi urged the continuation of a “whole-of-government” approach to address the challenges posed by the crisis. He also directed the establishment of an integrated and coordinated system to regularly monitor all developments and expeditiously implement necessary measures to protect the interests of citizens.
