India must remain prepared for de-escalation as well as any renewed escalation: Raksha Mantri

An Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM) meeting, chaired by Rajnath Singh, assessed the evolving situation in West Asia and India’s preparedness during its fourth बैठक at Kartavya Bhawan-2, New Delhi, on April 18, 2026. Key ministers including S. Jaishankar, J. P. Nadda, and Hardeep Singh Puri were present.

Describing the regional scenario as “uncertain and volatile,” Rajnath Singh emphasized readiness for both de-escalation and potential escalation. He reiterated that the government under Narendra Modi is taking swift and effective steps to mitigate risks.

Raksha Mantri termed the ground situation of the conflict as uncertain & volatile, and emphasised on the need for India to remain prepared not only for de-escalation but also for any renewed escalation. In a post on X, he stated that the Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi continues to take swift and effective action to mitigate any potential risks or problems arising due to the conflict.

A major highlight was the approval of the Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool, backed by a sovereign guarantee of ₹12,980 crore, ensuring uninterrupted and affordable insurance for maritime trade, even through volatile routes.

India’s energy security remains stable, with over 60 days of crude, petrol, diesel, and ATF stocks, alongside LNG and LPG reserves for 50 and 40 days respectively. Import diversification—covering regions like the US, Australia, and Latin America—has reduced reliance on the Strait of Hormuz.

Efforts to promote PNG usage have gained momentum, with over 4.76 lakh new connections and rising consumer shifts away from LPG. Measures are also in place to ensure petrochemical feedstock supply, with allocations supporting critical sectors like pharmaceuticals and chemicals.

Food prices remain stable, fertiliser stocks are adequate, and strict actions are underway against hoarding and black marketing. Additionally, the government continues to prioritise the welfare of the Indian diaspora, ensuring constant coordination with missions abroad.

The meeting underscored the need for coordinated action across states and documentation of best practices to strengthen India’s response framework amid global uncertainties.

Source : PIB,Delhi