Page 43 - NIS English 16-30 April, 2026

PM’s Meeting with Chief Ministers | NATION

need for advance planning in the agricultural sector,
including the monitoring of fertilizer storage and dis-
tribution, to ensure that farmers face no difficulties
during the upcoming Kharif season.

DO NOT PAY HEED TO RUMOURS
Warning against the spread of misinformation and
rumours, Prime Minister Modi stated that the timely
dissemination of accurate and reliable information
is essential to prevent the spread of panic. He also
Excise Duty Reduced… advised citizens to remain vigilant against online
During the meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath fraud and fraudulent agents. Providing assurances
Singh stated that the government is actively working regarding the availability of essential commodities
to tackle the current crisis. Positive measures have will help prevent the spread of unnecessary fear
been taken, such as ensuring the timely availability among the public. States with citizens residing in
of LPG and reducing excise duties on petrol and West Asia were urged to activate helplines, appoint
diesel. He also emphasised the need for collective nodal officers, and establish support systems at the
action by all states, union territories, and the centre
to address the prevailing situation. district level to assist affected families and ensure
the timely flow of information.

MEASURES TAKEN IN RECENT YEARS
PROVING BENEFICIAL
The efforts undertaken in recent years to strength-
en India’s economic and supply systems are proving
beneficial in the current circumstances. Directives
have been issued to maintain continuous dialogue
with the industry and MSMEs to address their
concerns and ensure stability in production and
employment. Emphasis was also placed on the
need for robust coordination mechanisms at all
levels. The importance of regular reviews at the
chief secretary level and continuous monitoring at
the district level was highlighted to ensure a swift
Chief ministers across states and effective response to evolving circumstances.
expressed confidence
Chief Ministers across states expressed confidence PROMOTING ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
that the situation remains stable, with adequate SOURCES
availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG and continuous States have been urged to accelerate the promotion
monitoring mechanisms in place to ensure an of alternative energy sources – such as biofuels, solar
uninterrupted supply of essential commodities. They energy, the GOBARdhan initiative, and electric mobility
widely welcomed the decision to reduce excise duty – as well as to expedite the expansion of piped natural
on fuel, noting that it will provide significant relief
to citizens amid global uncertainties. Chief Ministers gas connections. The significance of enhancing domes-
also welcomed the decision to increase commercial tic oil and natural gas exploration, with the active coop-
LPG allocation to states and union territories to 70% eration of the states, was also underscored. PM Modi
of pre-crisis levels, up from 50%. expressed that by working together as “Team India”,

the nation will successfully overcome the situation. n

April 16-30, 2026 || NEW INDIA SAMACHAR 41