Raksha Mantri-led IGoM takes stock of India’s readiness in view of evolving West Asia situation

The Informal Group of Ministers (IGoM), chaired by Rajnath Singh, convened its third meeting at Kartavya Bhawan-2 on April 8, 2026, to assess India’s preparedness following recent developments in West Asia. Senior ministers including araman”,”Finance Minister India”], “,”Dr S Jaishankar”,”External Affairs Minister India”], [“politician”,”Shivraj Singh Chouhan”,”Agriculture Minister India”], Piyush Goyal petrol, diesel, fertilisers, and essential commodities, attributing success to proactive measures under the leadership of Narendra Modi.

The IGoM noted that India evacuated more vessels from the Strait of Hormuz than any other country in the past 40 days, including eight LPG carriers transporting ~340TM of LPG—enough to meet roughly 11 days of import demand. Domestic LPG supply remains stable, and 5kg Free Trade LPG cylinder distribution has been doubled for vulnerable groups. Industrial LPG allocation has been prioritised, with 70% directed to critical sectors including pharma, food, polymers, steel, defence, and agriculture to prevent supply disruptions.

Efforts to promote Piped Natural Gas (PNG) have accelerated, with 3.16 lakh new connections added, tripling March 2025 levels, and 16,700+ LPG connections surrendered, reflecting growing PNG adoption.

Food Security and Essential Commodities: Adequate buffer stocks of rice and wheat ensure PDS supply and emergency preparedness. The Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) allows FCI to stabilise prices and supply. Wheat procurement for Rabi Marketing Season 2026–27 is underway, with contingency measures for packaging and logistics.

Domestic edible oil supply is stable, supported by imports from Indonesia, Malaysia, Argentina, and Brazil, and improved mustard production. Sugar production and buffer stocks remain sufficient, with 15.80 LMT permitted for export; 3.73 LMT has already been exported. Prices of essential commodities, including edible oils, remain largely stable, with moderate fluctuations being monitored.

The IGoM emphasised continuous monitoring of energy, food, and industrial supply chains, ensuring India remains resilient amid global uncertainty.

Source : PIB-New Delhi / Edited by News Mania Desk