West Asia Conflict: PM Modi Chairs CCS Meet, Reviews Fuel, Food Supplies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review measures being taken in response to the ongoing West Asia conflict, with a focus on safeguarding essential supplies and stabilising prices.This was the second such high-level meeting on the issue. Officials briefed the panel on steps taken across sectors including agriculture, fertilizers, shipping, aviation, logistics and MSMEs to address emerging challenges.The government reviewed efforts to diversify supply sources for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), while also examining fuel duty reductions and power sector measures to ensure uninterrupted availability. Authorities said domestic LPG prices have remained

unchanged, with enforcement actions underway to curb hoarding and black-marketing.

Control rooms have been set up to monitor prices and coordinate with states and union territories for enforcement under the Essential Commodities Act. Officials said retail prices of food items have remained stable over the past month, with continued monitoring of agricultural produce, vegetables and fruits.The CCS also discussed steps to ensure fertilizer availability, including maintaining urea production and coordinating with overseas suppliers for DAP and NPKS. State governments have been asked to intensify checks against diversion and hoarding through regular monitoring and enforcement drives.Measures to ensure power supply during peak summer months were also reviewed, including increased coal availability and steps to support gas-based power plants. Officials said adequate coal stocks are in place to meet energy needs in the coming months.The government is also working to secure supply chains and ensure safe maritime movement through key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, while pursuing diplomatic efforts to manage the evolving situation.Modi assessed the availability of essential commodities and reviewed steps to ensure fertilizer supply for the upcoming Kharif and Rabi seasons. He directed that all efforts be made to shield citizens from the impact of the conflict.

The PM also emphasised the need for timely dissemination of accurate information to prevent misinformation and rumours, and called for coordinated action across central and state agencies to address challenges arising from the global situation.Starting February 28, the US and Israel have launched a massive joint attack on Iran and with Iran's retaliation, it has extended to the entire Gulf region.Iranian strikes in Hormuz have affected maritime traffic in the strait, which is crucial for global supply chains for crude and oil.

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The strait, a narrow shipping lane that connects the Persian Gulf with the Indian Ocean, remains effectively closed, bringing to a near halt the transit of hundreds of vessels per day, including container, dry bulk and liquid cargo ships.