IGO M Reviews West Asia Situation; Govt Steps Up Monitoring and Safeguards

The second meeting of the Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM), chaired by Rajnath Singh, was held at Kartavya Bhawan-2 in New Delhi on April 2, 2026, to assess the evolving situation in West Asia and its potential impact on India.

The meeting was attended by key ministers including Nirmala Sitharaman, Hardeep Singh Puri, S. Jaishankar, Jagat Prakash Nadda, Prahlad Joshi, Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Jitendra Singh, among others. The IGoM reviewed recent developments and discussed proactive measures to minimise disruptions.

Emphasising the uncertain global environment, Rajnath Singh called for round-the-clock monitoring and a calibrated response to safeguard national interests. He stressed that all efforts must be made to ensure minimal impact on citizens.

The Ministry of Finance outlined relief measures to counter global trade disruptions, including full customs duty exemption on 40 critical petrochemical products till June 30, 2026, concessional duty benefits for SEZ units, and clarity on GAAR provisions for pre-2017 investments. These steps aim to stabilise supply chains and boost investor confidence.

The government also capped monthly increases in Aviation Turbine Fuel prices at 25% to prevent sudden fare hikes. LPG supply has been prioritised, with enhanced refinery output ensuring uninterrupted domestic distribution. Strict action is underway against hoarding and black marketing, while over 4.3 lakh 5-kg LPG cylinders have been distributed to support vulnerable groups.

Additionally, efforts are being made to maintain industrial fuel supply, promote PNG usage, and counter misinformation. The IGoM reaffirmed its commitment to coordinated action, ensuring economic stability and public welfare amid global uncertainties.

Source : PIB-New Delhi