Centre forms seven empowered groups to deal with West Asia crisis, says PM Modi

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Mar 25, 2026: Amid the ongoing West Asia crisis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced the formation of seven empowered groups to devise strategies to tackle key challenges, including disruptions in the supply of petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilizers from the Gulf region, as well as inflation and supply chain issues.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Modi also urged state governments to take strict action against black marketers and hoarders to ensure the uninterrupted availability of essential commodities to the public.

Drawing a parallel with the Covid-19 pandemic, he said that similar empowered groups of exporters and officials had been constituted earlier to address sector-specific challenges. “Seven new empowered groups were formed yesterday. They will focus on issues such as supply chains, fuel, fertilizers, gas, and inflation, adopting both immediate and long-term strategies,” he said.

The Union government is yet to release details regarding the composition and terms of reference of these groups.

With the kharif (summer) cropping season approaching, Modi assured that adequate preparations have been made to ensure sufficient availability of fertilizers for farmers during the sowing period.

He also called on states to take proactive steps to address the concerns of migrant workers and to closely monitor black market activities, which tend to rise during crises.

The Prime Minister said he has been in regular contact with leaders of Israel, Iran, the United States, and Gulf nations. He noted that he held a telephonic conversation with US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, focusing on de-escalation efforts and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

“The war in West Asia is a matter of concern. India advocates peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy,” he said.

Warning of serious consequences if the crisis continues for a prolonged period, Modi reiterated that India’s priority is to promote de-escalation and ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Nearly 10 million Indians live and work in Gulf countries. Since the onset of the conflict, around 375,000 have returned safely. More than 1,000 Indians, including over 700 young medical students, have returned from Iran.

“The current crisis has shaken the global economy, and it will take time for the world to recover from the damage caused in West Asia. Continuous efforts are being made to minimize its impact on India,” he added.