From LPG to Rabi fertilisers: PM Modi reviews Middle East crisis preparedness

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review the ongoing conflict in Middle East and assess India's preparedness to deal with its impact.The meeting reviewed the geopolitical situation, the availability of fuel and fertilisers, the safety of Indian citizens and the diaspora and measures to protect Indian seafarers operating in conflict zones. This was the fourth special CCS meeting held on the issue.During the meet, several top cabinet ministers including Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh and NSA chief Ajit Doval were also present. The Cabinet Secretary briefed the committee on the steps taken to ensure uninterrupted supplies of petroleum products, including crude oil, LPG and LNG. According to the briefing, India has diversified its LPG procurement sources and that the stock position of major petroleum products remains adequate.The government said sufficient crude oil supplies have enabled public sector refineries to operate at utilisation levels of over 100%, ensuring continued production of petrol, diesel and other fuels. It also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand piped natural gas (PNG) connections, strengthen the National Gas Grid, increase LNG import and regasification capacity and improve city gas distribution networks.The CCS also reviewed fertiliser availability ahead of the upcoming Rabi season. PM Modi further directed officials to take all necessary measures to ensure uninterrupted fertiliser supplies and explore alternate sources wherever required.The situation of Indian seafarers serving on domestic and foreign-flagged vessels in conflict zones also came up for discussion. PM directed the government to establish a dedicated mechanism to provide timely information, emergency assistance and counselling to seafarers and their families.Emphasising the need to protect Indian nationals overseas, PM Modi said every effort should be made to safeguard both Indian citizens and the Indian diaspora from the impact of the conflict, according to Press Information Bureau. PM Modi also stressed the importance of reducing dependence on conventional energy sources and called for greater emphasis on renewable energy, including solar power and other non-fossil fuel-based sources, to strengthen India's long-term energy security.Calling for a whole-of-government approach, PM Modi directed ministries and departments to continue working in close coordination. He also asked officials to establish a unified monitoring mechanism to regularly track developments in Middle East and ensure quick implementation of measures required to protect the interests of Indian citizens.The ongoing conflict in Middle East involving the United States, Iran and Israel has affected global energy markets and supply chains. India has also faced concerns over LPG supplies and energy security due to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, leading the government to regularly review the evolving situation and preparedness measures.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.