New Delhi, 27 March (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will today hold a video conference with chief ministers of all states (excluding five poll-bound ones) to discuss the situation arising from the West Asia crisis. He will review the states' preparations on how to safeguard the general public from the potential fallout of war.

This evening meeting is particularly significant as it will be the Prime Minister's first such interaction with chief ministers since the conflict erupted in the Gulf region. The Cabinet Secretariat will separately meet the chief secretaries of the election-bound states of Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, and the Union Territory of Puducherry.

The initiative aims to ensure coordination in the government's efforts, inspired by the spirit of 'Team India'. Prime Minister Modi has been actively engaged on the crisis stemming from the Iran conflict.

On Monday, he briefed Lok Sabha members on the steps being taken. On Tuesday, he addressed the Rajya Sabha on the matter. On Wednesday, his senior ministers responded to questions from all opposition parties during an all-party meeting. Since states play a crucial role in managing oil and gas supplies, the Prime Minister will now discuss this with the chief ministers.

The Prime Minister has already conveyed the message: Uncertainty looms over how long the West Asia crisis will persist. In this scenario, the Central Government is working on concrete measures to minimize the impact of war. All state governments must join hands with the Centre and work as Team India.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar