Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to chair a high-level virtual meeting with Chief Ministers on Friday to review India’s national preparedness in light of the intensifying West Asia conflict. As the Iran-Israel war enters a critical phase, the Prime Minister is expected to issue a “war-footing” readiness message, focusing on safeguarding supply chains, ensuring energy security, and stabilizing fuel prices. The meeting comes shortly after Iran designated India as one of five “friendly nations” allowed safe passage through the volatile Strait of Hormuz.

However, West Bengal’s participation remains a technical catch. With the Assembly Elections scheduled and the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in place, Chief Ministers of poll-bound states—including West Bengal, Assam, and Tamil Nadu—are restricted from participating in such policy-driven interactions. Instead, the Chief Secretaries of these states will represent their respective regions in a separate administrative briefing conducted by the Cabinet Secretariat to ensure inter-ministerial coordination remains seamless despite the elections.

The PM’s agenda is clear: building a “Team India” synergy to tackle potential ripple effects on the Indian economy. Key discussions will revolve around the availability of LPG and crude oil, as international prices hover around $100 per barrel. While India has secured a diplomatic win with the Hormuz opening, the government is taking no chances regarding internal security and hoarding of essential commodities. This meeting will be a crucial step in aligning the Center and States for any unforeseen global emergency.