West Asia crisis: PM Narendra Modi holds meeting with chief ministers, stresses ‘Team India’ model

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting with chief ministers to discuss the impact of the ongoing West Asia crisis on Indian states. The high-level meeting focused on preparedness, coordination, and ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential resources.

Government assures 60 days of fuel availability

The government has reassured citizens that there is no immediate threat despite rising tensions in West Asia. Officials confirmed that India currently has sufficient fuel reserves for around 60 days.

People have been urged not to believe rumors regarding fuel shortages. The government emphasized that energy supply remains stable and well-managed, with adequate stock available to meet current demand.

Focus on ‘Team India’ model like Covid period

During the meeting, PM Modi highlighted the importance of the ‘Team India’ approach, which was effectively used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under this model, the central and state governments work in coordination as a unified system.

While earlier the focus was on medicines, masks, and testing kits, the current priority is ensuring smooth availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG. The Prime Minister reiterated that a collective effort, similar to the pandemic response, is essential to tackle challenges arising from the crisis linked to Iran.

Some states not part of the meeting

Chief ministers of five states—West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Puducherry—did not participate in the meeting due to upcoming elections.

The meeting aims to handle the situation efficiently as global tensions have led to concerns over fuel supply in India. In several states, rumors of shortages have caused long queues at petrol pumps, with people rushing to stock fuel.

However, the government has repeatedly clarified that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel in the country.