Rajnath Singh Holds High-Level Meeting Following PM Modi’s Appeal; makes BIG statement

New Delhi: In light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has urged the public to remain calm and avoid any form of panic. He stated that the government is keeping a vigilant watch over energy supply chains and the availability of essential commodities.

Against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the 5th meeting of the IGoM (Inter-Ministerial Group) was held on Monday. During this meeting, the Defense Minister noted that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is doing commendable work to ensure the supply of all essential items. "I urge the people to remain calm, as the government is taking concrete steps to prevent any shortages or disruptions in supplies."

Echoing Prime Minister Modi's appeal, he stated that the collective participation of the people in confronting global challenges would ensure self-reliance and energy security.

What Appeal Had PM Modi Made to the Nation?

Earlier, on Sunday, while speaking at an event in Hyderabad, PM Modi had appealed to Indians to cut down on their expenses. He advised against purchasing gold, suggested postponing non-essential foreign travel, and recommended working from home wherever possible. India is currently facing economic challenges due to rising crude oil prices—triggered by the conflict between Iran and the US—and the consequent disruption of global supply chains.

PM Modi suggested that habits adopted during the COVID-19 era—such as working from home, conducting virtual meetings, and utilizing video conferencing—should be reinstated. This, he noted, would help reduce fuel consumption and conserve foreign exchange reserves. He also called for increased usage of the Metro, carpooling, and electric vehicles, as well as a shift in freight transport towards the railways.

Was Emphasis Placed on Refraining from Gold Purchases?

Regarding gold, the Prime Minister issued a specific appeal. He stated, "In the national interest, we should resolve not to purchase gold for at least one year." India ranks among the world's largest importers of gold, and its import bill typically surges during the festive and wedding seasons.

The Prime Minister also advised against undertaking non-essential foreign travel, taking overseas vacations, or organizing destination weddings. Meanwhile, Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri informed that state-run oil companies are currently incurring heavy losses in an effort to shield consumers from price hikes. Officials estimate that oil prices could remain high for an extended period due to a disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.