Team India, tight coordination and vigilance: PM Narendra Modi's message to CMs

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to chief ministers in a virtual meeting on Friday with the message that the Centre and the state should work as "Team India" to deal with the challenges emerging from the West Asia crisis. Underscoring the need for vigilance against hoarding and black marketing in the wake of the disruption in supply chains caused by the conflict, he emphasised overall preparedness and coordinated action.

Modi heard the CMs and appreciated their "valuable suggestions", assuring that these inputs will help the Centre in effectively managing the situation. Reiterating his remarks in Parliament on the West Asia crisis, he said the collective response of the Centre and the states during Covid should be repeated through a spirit of cooperation and coordination to mitigate the impact of supply chain disruptions and effect on trade.

The prime minister emphasized that the situation in West Asia remains dynamic and requires continuous monitoring and alterations in strategy. He stated that an Inter-Ministerial Group has been working since March 3. Economic and trade stability, energy security and safety of citizens as well as boosting industry and the supply chains are the government's top priorities, he added.


States have a critical role to play at this juncture, the prime minister said and underlined the need for constant communication, information sharing and joint decision-making. With implementation of plans largely dependent on states, Modi said strict measures should be taken against hoarding and black marketing.

Giving due regard to the protection of farmers, Modi said there should be no shortage of fertilisers so that the upcoming Kharif season is not affected.

Misinformation and rumour mongering should be effectively checked to prevent panic among the people. The PM also called for attention in border and coastal states to address any emerging challenges related to shipping, essential supplies, and maritime operations. Incidentally, all the poll-bound states are border states.

At the same time, there should be no disruption in engagement with industry and MSMEs to address their concerns and ensure stability in production and employment.

Chief secretaries of states have been directed to hold regular reviews of the situation at the district level.

The Prime Minister reiterated that addressing the challenge is a shared responsibility and expressed confidence that, working together as "Team India," the nation will successfully overcome the situation.

The Centre's efforts in ensuring adequate supply of LPG cylinders, petrol, diesel, and fertiliser were highlighted in the meeting.

Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan gave a presentation on the current situation and enumerated steps and recommendations for states to tackle the situation.