‘Files shouldn’t move table to table’: PM Modi’s 3 big messages amid US-Iran war crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday delivered a strong message to his council of ministers, asking them to speed up governance, prepare for possible energy disruptions linked to the ongoing US-Iran conflict, and stay committed to the long-term vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.
The high-level meeting, which reportedly lasted over four hours, took place against the backdrop of rising global tensions in West Asia and growing concerns over the economic impact of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.
Faster governance, fewer delays
During the meeting, PM Modi stressed that government work should move faster and warned against bureaucratic delays.
According to people familiar with the discussions, the Prime Minister said files should not keep ‘moving endlessly from desk to desk’ and urged ministers to simplify procedures and improve transparency.
He also asked ministries to ensure there is no pendency in official work and said governance should directly improve the ‘ease of living’ for citizens.
Ministers were reportedly told to focus on future targets instead of relying on past achievements and to speed up implementation of central welfare schemes, especially in states where progress has been slow.
The meeting also featured presentations by external affairs minister S. Jaishankar, Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan and NITI Aayog member Rajiv Gauba on governance reforms and foreign policy developments.
Energy concerns dominate discussions
A major focus of the discussions was the growing energy uncertainty triggered by the US-Iran conflict.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, continues to face disruptions amid escalating tensions in the region.
PM Modi reportedly asked ministers to explore alternative fuel sources, including renewable energy and biogas, in anticipation of possible disruptions in crude oil, gas, and fertiliser supplies.
India remains heavily dependent on oil, and LPG imports pass through the strategic waterway.
Rising global crude prices have already led to fuel price hikes in the domestic market, with state-run oil companies increasing petrol and diesel rates in recent days.
Reiterating the government’s long-term vision, the Prime Minister said ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ should not remain merely a slogan but must become a ‘binding commitment’ guiding policy and reforms in the years ahead.