Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the necessity for continuous monitoring and a strategic response to navigate any potential challenges arising from the evolving West Asia situation. The Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM), chaired by Singh, convened to discuss recent developments and plan proactive measures to minimize the impact on India. Emphasizing the importance of vigilant monitoring, Singh stressed the significance of a measured approach to address uncertainties effectively.
The meeting focused on strategies to mitigate adverse effects of the ongoing conflict and ensure minimal disruption for the country’s populace. Seven Empowered Groups of Secretaries briefed the IGoM on initiatives being implemented to address the situation. Measures by the Ministry of Finance, such as customs duty exemptions and relief measures for specific industries, were discussed to stabilize trade disruptions and boost investor confidence.
Singh commended the government’s decision to cap monthly increases in Aviation Turbine Fuel prices, safeguarding domestic consumers from sudden fare hikes. Ensuring uninterrupted domestic LPG supply, the government has ramped up refinery production to meet consumption demands. Efforts to combat hoarding and black marketing have been undertaken to maintain regular LPG cylinder deliveries and support migrant labor and low-consumption households.
To meet industrial LPG demands, the government is maintaining over 80% of pre-crisis supply levels, holding consultations with various industries to address specific needs. Auto LPG supply continuity is ensured by Oil PSUs, with increased daily LPG deliveries to meet heightened demand. Additionally, the promotion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) as an industrial alternative is being actively pursued, with a focus on sustaining operational continuity in sectors already utilizing PNG.
