New Delhi (India) March 27:Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged states to respond collectively just as they did to COVID-19 pandemic, in the face of the energy supply crisis caused by the West Asia conflict. He is hopeful that "Team India will overcome this situation."
This statement was made by PM Modi in a virtual meeting with chief ministers and lieutenant governors, which he chaired on Friday. Along with discussing India's preparedness, the meeting was also intended to review the possible impact of the conflict on India.

Drawing Lessons from India's COVID-19 Response

Talking about the situation in West Asia, Modi said that India has experience over the years of handling such global disruptions. The PM further said that the government priorities are economic stability and trade supply chains. Besides this, he referred to the joint reaction in the time of Covid-19 pandemic, when both the Centre and States along with "Team India" helped lessen the effect on supply chains, trade, and daily life.
"With the combined efforts of all state governments and the central government, the country will be able to effectively confront this grave global crisis. We must carry forward the same 'Team India' spirit," he said.

Modi Applauds CM Inputs

The Prime Minister thanked all the Chief Ministers for their valuable suggestions and said that these ideas would help in dealing with the changing situation effectively. He made a point of the fact that everyone must be alert, ready and work together in order to overcome the problems.
PM Modi explained that this situation can change continuously, so it requires us to keep a close eye on it and come up with strategies which we can change if needed.

Stresses On Centre-State Coordination

Especially talking about the importance of States, Narendra Modi said that decisions are best implemented at the State level therefore effectiveness of decisions to a large extent depends on the States. Therefore, he asked for regular communication and coordination between the Centre and States, along with timely sharing of information and joint decision making, so that the responses continue to be quick and well-aligned.

Curb Hoarding, Ensure Smooth Supply Chains

The Prime Minister asked States to ensure that supply chains work without any hindrance and also to take strict steps against hoarding and profiteering. He pointed out that it is very necessary to open control rooms at State and District levels and to remain administratively alert to prevent any disruptions.