States urged for ‘Team India’ approach to tackle crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced the constitution of seven empowered groups to address the potential long-term impacts of the West Asia war and urged states to adopt a “Team India” approach to tackle the crisis.
Flagging the “serious side effects” of the conflict, Modi recalled India’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic, when empowered groups of experts played a key role in managing challenges. He said the newly formed groups would deal with the consequences of the war and evolve strategies relating to fuel, fertilisers, gas, supply chains and inflation.
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Modi reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable solutions to restore peace in West Asia. He said India was in constant touch with all stakeholders, including Iran, Israel and the United States, to push for de-escalation.
Acknowledging the unprecedented challenges posed by the war, particularly disruptions in the supply of crude oil, gas and fertilisers, Modi stressed that “self-reliance was the only option” going forward.
He also urged citizens to remain prepared for uncertainties, noting that the situation continues to evolve rapidly.
Highlighting the global energy crisis triggered by the conflict, the Prime Minister warned against black marketing and hoarding, directing state governments to take strict action against those seeking to exploit the situation. He emphasised that the Centre was making continuous efforts to procure crude oil and gas from all available sources to ensure that common people are not adversely affected.
Modi assured farmers that adequate fertiliser supplies had been arranged and said no burden of the war would be allowed to impact the agricultural sector. He added that an inter-ministerial group was already meeting regularly to assess import-export challenges and devise necessary solutions.
Describing the West Asia crisis as unique, Modi said responses were being tailored accordingly. He noted that the coming period would be a significant test for the country and stressed that cooperation from states would be crucial for success.
He urged state governments to ensure timely delivery of benefits under the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, particularly for the poor, labourers and migrant workers. He also called for special monitoring mechanisms and swift action against complaints of hoarding and black marketing.
Invoking cooperative federalism, Modi emphasised the need for coordinated and swift reforms to maintain India’s growth trajectory despite global uncertainties.