New Delhi: The Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, convened its third meeting at Kartavya Bhawan-2 to review India’s preparedness in light of the evolving situation in West Asia. The meeting brought together senior Union Ministers across key portfolios to assess readiness and ensure coordinated response measures. The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Commerce & Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal, and other senior members of the Union Cabinet.
Focus on Preparedness and Resilience
Addressing the ministers, Shri Rajnath Singh stressed that the focus must remain on preparedness, coordination, and resilience-building to effectively handle any emerging challenges. He reaffirmed that the Government is proactively working to safeguard citizens and maintain economic stability. He further stated that the Government is ensuring the continued availability of LPG, petrol, diesel, fertilisers, and facilitating the seamless supply of essential commodities across the country.
Strengthening Energy Security
India has demonstrated strong energy resilience amid global uncertainties:
- Successful evacuation and transit of 8 LPG vessels carrying ~340 TM, equivalent to around 11 days of import requirements
- No reported shortages at LPG distributorships nationwide
- Enhanced LPG allocation for industrial sectors to avoid disruptions in key industries such as pharma, agriculture, steel, and packaging
To support vulnerable sections, including migrant workers, the Government has doubled the supply of 5 kg LPG cylinders under priority allocation. Public sector fuel outlets continue to meet rising demand, ensuring uninterrupted supply for transportation needs.
Push Towards Sustainable Energy
The Government is actively promoting Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to reduce dependence on LPG. Over 3.16 lakh new PNG connections have been added, marking a significant increase compared to previous levels, alongside voluntary surrender of LPG connections by citizens.
Food Security and Price Stability
The Government highlighted robust food security measures:
- Adequate buffer stocks of rice and wheat for PDS and emergency needs
- Active price stabilisation through the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS)
- Smooth procurement operations under Rabi Marketing Season 2026–27
Edible oil supplies remain stable despite global uncertainties, supported by imports and improved domestic production. Similarly, the sugar sector continues to maintain sufficient stock levels with stable pricing trends.
Monitoring Inflation and Market Trends
The Department of Consumer Affairs is monitoring prices of 40 essential commodities across 578 centres nationwide. So far, prices have remained largely stable, with only moderate increases observed in edible oils.
Ensuring Supply Chain Continuity
Proactive measures are being undertaken to strengthen supply chains, including:
- Ensuring availability of packaging materials for foodgrain procurement
- Diversifying supply sources
- Initiating onion procurement to stabilise market prices
Government’s Assurance
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that under the leadership of the Prime Minister, India continues to take decisive steps to mitigate the impact of global developments and ensure the welfare of its citizens.