New Delhi (Gurpreet Singh): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, March 27, 2026, chaired a high-level virtual meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors to review India’s preparedness amid the escalating West Asia crisis. Emphasizing a “Team India” approach, the Prime Minister urged states to ensure advance planning in the agriculture sector, particularly by monitoring fertilizer storage and distribution ahead of the upcoming Kharif season. He called for strict measures against hoarding and profiteering to maintain the smooth functioning of essential supply chains.
The meeting follows significant central interventions to shield the domestic economy from global energy shocks. PM Modi welcomed the recent decision to slash central excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre, a move aimed at insulating consumers and oil marketing companies (OMCs) from international crude prices that have surged toward $122 per barrel. Additionally, the government has hiked the commercial LPG allocation for states from 50% to 70% of pre-crisis levels. This additional 20% allocation is being prioritized for labour-intensive industries such as steel, automobiles, and textiles to ensure production continuity and protect livelihoods.
During the interaction, Chief Ministers expressed confidence in the stability of their respective states, reporting adequate stocks of petrol, diesel, and LPG. The Prime Minister cautioned against the spread of misinformation and “lockdown rumours,” stressing the importance of disseminating accurate information to prevent panic. He reiterated that the government’s top priorities remain safeguarding energy security, maintaining trade stability, and protecting the interests of every citizen as the geopolitical situation in West Asia remains dynamic
