NEW DELHI: An Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Wednesday reviewed India’s preparedness in the context of evolving developments in West Asia, stressing the need for sustained vigilance, coordination, and resilience to manage any potential fallout.
During the meeting, Rajnath Singh directed all departments to prioritise preparedness and strengthen inter-ministerial coordination. He underscored the importance of building resilience to ensure the country remains equipped to respond effectively to any emerging geopolitical challenges.
He noted that the government is taking proactive measures to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential commodities such as LPG, petrol, diesel, fertilisers, and other critical supplies. He also highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, efforts are being made to safeguard citizens from the adverse effects of the ongoing crisis.
Officials briefed the group that India has enabled the evacuation of the highest number of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz over the past 40 days. Eight LPG carriers, transporting around 340 thousand metric tonnes—equivalent to nearly 11 days of the country’s import requirement—have successfully transited the route, strengthening energy security and supply continuity.
Authorities confirmed that there have been no reports of LPG shortages nationwide, with uninterrupted delivery of domestic cylinders continuing. To support vulnerable sections, the supply of 5-kg LPG cylinders has been enhanced beyond the earlier allocation.
The government has also prioritised LPG availability for key industrial sectors by allocating 70% of fuel demand to non-domestic bulk consumers. This step is aimed at preventing supply disruptions and ensuring uninterrupted operations in critical sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food processing, and defence production.
In parallel, Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is being promoted as an alternative fuel. More than 3.16 lakh new PNG connections have been added—three times higher than March 2025 levels—indicating a gradual shift away from LPG dependence.
The IGoM was informed that India’s food security remains strong, with adequate buffer stocks of rice and wheat to meet PDS and emergency needs. The government is ready to intervene through market operations, with the Food Corporation of India maintaining sufficient reserves to control inflation.
Rabi procurement for 2026–27 has begun with proper storage and packaging arrangements in place. Edible oil supply remains stable despite global uncertainties, supported by imports and higher mustard output, while the sugar sector continues to show stability with adequate stocks and controlled prices.
The Department of Consumer Affairs is monitoring prices of essential commodities, with no major volatility observed except a moderate rise in edible oil prices. The government is also preparing to procure onions for buffer stocks, with agencies like NAFED and NCCF stepping in.
Officials added that mustard oil production is expected to increase by about 5%, reducing import dependence. While easing global energy prices have provided some relief, the government will continue to closely monitor the situation and take timely action as needed.
The meeting highlighted the Centre’s continued focus on maintaining economic stability, strengthening supply chains, and protecting citizens amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia.
Notably, the meeting was attended by several senior ministers, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, among others.
