PM Modi Chairs 4th CCS Meeting On West Asia Conflict, Orders Steps to Protect Indians and Secure Energy

As the conflict in West Asia continues to escalate, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday chaired the fourth special meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to assess the evolving geopolitical situation and review the government's preparedness to deal with its potential impact on India.

The high-level meeting focused on protecting Indian citizens and the Indian diaspora, maintaining uninterrupted supplies of petroleum products and fertilizers, and ensuring a coordinated national response to any emerging challenges.

During the briefing, the Cabinet Secretary informed the CCS that India has taken multiple steps to strengthen its energy security. The government has diversified LPG procurement sources, while adequate crude oil availability has enabled public sector refineries to operate at more than 100 per cent capacity, ensuring a steady supply of petrol, diesel and other essential petroleum products.

The government also reviewed measures to expand Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connectivity, strengthen the National Gas Grid, enhance LNG import and regasification infrastructure, and accelerate the expansion of City Gas Distribution networks to reduce dependence on conventional fuels.

With the Rabi sowing season approaching, the CCS assessed fertilizer requirements and discussed alternate procurement options. The Prime Minister directed all concerned ministries to ensure there is no disruption in fertilizer availability, safeguarding the interests of farmers across the country.

The meeting also examined the safety of Indian seafarers working on domestic and foreign-flagged vessels operating in conflict-affected regions. The Prime Minister instructed officials to establish a dedicated mechanism for providing timely information, emergency assistance and counselling to seafarers and their families.

Reiterating the government's commitment to the welfare of citizens, PM Modi stressed that every possible effort must be made to protect Indians at home and abroad from the fallout of the conflict. He also underlined the need to accelerate the adoption of renewable and non-fossil fuel energy sources, including solar power, to strengthen India's long-term energy independence.

Calling for a whole-of-government approach, the Prime Minister directed that a unified coordination mechanism be put in place to continuously monitor developments and ensure rapid implementation of measures needed to safeguard national interests.