PM Modi Reviews Preparedness Amid West Asia Crisis in Virtual Meeting with Chief Ministers

In a recent virtual meeting, PM Modi engaged with Chief Ministers to evaluate the nation's readiness in response to the escalating crisis in West Asia. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among states and reassured that there would be no lockdown, countering circulating rumors. The meeting, attended by key ministers, aimed to gather insights on state-level preparations. As tensions rise in West Asia, the government is closely monitoring the situation, with implications for the global economy, particularly in oil and gas sectors. This article delves into the discussions and the government's stance on the ongoing crisis.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 27, 2026, 21:58 IST

Overview of the Meeting

New Delhi. In a virtual meeting with Chief Ministers, PM Modi assessed the country's readiness in light of the ongoing crisis in West Asia. On Friday, he convened a discussion with state leaders regarding the situation in the region, urging them to collaborate like Team India and enhance their preparedness.

During the video conference, the Prime Minister sought updates on the states' plans and readiness. This marked the first time he has addressed this issue with the Chief Ministers. Notably, the Chief Ministers from election-bound states were absent due to the enforcement of the election code of conduct, although Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah were present.

Prior to this meeting, the government had clarified that there would be no lockdown in the country. Three ministers, including Kiren Rijiju, dismissed rumors regarding a lockdown. Chief Ministers from several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Punjab, Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh, participated in the meeting.

Three ministers from the government refuted the lockdown rumors...

The speculation about a lockdown began following PM Modi's statement in Parliament four days earlier, where he mentioned the challenging global conditions resulting from the ongoing conflict. He emphasized that the impact of this situation could persist for an extended period. ये खबर आप गज़ब वायरल में पढ़ रहे हैं। He noted that during the pandemic, the nation had faced such challenges with unity.

On Friday, three ministers denied the rumors...

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated: "Who is spreading these lockdown rumors? The PM has clearly stated that there is no need for panic. From the highest levels to the grassroots, including the PM himself, we are monitoring the situation to ensure the public does not face difficulties."
Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri added: "The rumors regarding a lockdown are entirely false. I want to clarify that there is no proposal under consideration at the government level. It is crucial for us to remain calm, responsible, and united during this time."
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reassured the public, stating, "I want to assure everyone that there will not be a lockdown like the one we experienced during COVID. I am surprised that some leaders are suggesting a lockdown and fuel shortages. These claims are baseless."

Statements from Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge on Lockdown

Rahul Gandhi remarked: "Modi ji has indicated that a situation similar to COVID is on the horizon. He seems to have forgotten the number of lives lost and the tragic circumstances we faced during that time."

Mallikarjun Kharge added: "The painful experiences during COVID cannot be forgotten. Is the PM asking 1.4 billion Indians to once again face crises like energy shortages, food, fertilizer, and rising inflation?"

Petroleum Ministry Reports 40% Increase in LPG Production

On Friday, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Petroleum Ministry, stated that the rumors about a lockdown are completely unfounded. She confirmed that there is a sufficient stock of crude oil, enough to last for about two months.

According to the Petroleum Ministry, all refineries in the country are operating at full capacity. Domestic LPG production has increased by 40%. Prices for petrol and diesel have not been raised.

The ministry noted that it initially reduced commercial supply but has gradually increased it to 70%. Since March 14, 30,000 tons of LPG have been supplied, prioritizing restaurants and dhabas.

Central Ministers' Group Formed Under Rajnath Singh's Leadership

Meanwhile, the central government has established a group of ministers under Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to monitor the situation in West Asia. This group includes central ministers Amit Shah, Nirmala Sitharaman, and Hardeep Puri.

The conflict in West Asia began on February 28 with attacks on Iran by the US and Israel, prompting retaliatory strikes from Iran in the Gulf region. This war has now been ongoing for four weeks, with no signs of resolution. The crisis is impacting the global economy, particularly affecting oil and gas prices.