Kashmir Impulse Desk

New Delhi, April 18 

An Indian ministerial panel led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the evolving situation in West Asia on Saturday, assessing potential risks to the country and measures to safeguard energy supplies, trade and citizens abroad.

The Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM), which includes External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other senior cabinet members, met in New Delhi to evaluate preparedness amid what officials described as an uncertain and volatile regional environment.

Singh said India must remain prepared for both de-escalation and any renewed escalation, adding that the government was taking “swift and effective action” under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to mitigate potential disruptions.

The panel reviewed steps to secure energy and supply chains as tensions threaten key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipments.

Officials said India currently holds fuel stocks sufficient for more than 60 days of consumption, including crude oil, petrol, diesel and aviation fuel, while liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) inventories are estimated to cover about 50 and 40 days respectively.

To reduce dependence on vulnerable routes, India has diversified sourcing of crude oil and gas, securing supplies from regions including the United States, Australia and Latin America, with import requirements for April and May largely covered.

The group also reviewed measures to stabilise domestic supply chains, including promoting piped natural gas (PNG) connections to reduce LPG demand and ensuring availability of petrochemical feedstocks for industry.

Singh highlighted a cabinet-approved plan to create a “Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool” backed by a sovereign guarantee, aimed at ensuring affordable insurance for Indian shipping even in high-risk waters.

“This decision will ensure continuous insurance coverage for maritime trade, strengthening the stability of India’s import-export operations,” he said.

Officials said food prices remain stable and fertiliser stocks are adequate, with additional supplies secured to meet agricultural demand. Enforcement actions have also been stepped up to prevent hoarding and black marketing.

The panel discussed the welfare of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region, with Singh stressing the need for constant communication and readiness to provide assistance if required.

He also called for coordination across states to ensure consistent implementation of mitigation measures, and for documenting best practices to strengthen India’s response to external shocks.