Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a rare, extended meeting of the Council of Ministers lasting over four hours on Thursday, with energy security and the push for a developed India by 2047 emerging as central themes amid ongoing challenges from the West Asia conflict.
According to sources familiar with the proceedings, Modi emphasized that the vision of Viksit Bharat is a firm governmental commitment rather than a mere slogan. He urged ministers to prioritize reforms, efficient delivery, and swift implementation of policies to achieve tangible results for citizens.
The session, the first full meeting of its kind in nearly a year, brought together cabinet ministers, ministers of state with independent charge, and other ministers of state. It took place ahead of the second anniversary of Modi’s third term on June 9, providing an opportunity to review the progress of key programs and initiatives.
Modi reviewed developments across nine critical sectors, including the economy, agriculture, labour, energy, power, infrastructure, trade, commerce, and corporate affairs. Discussions highlighted the need to address disruptions caused by the conflict in West Asia, particularly vulnerabilities in oil and gas supplies linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of exploring alternative fuels, such as biogas and other renewable energy sources, to bolster energy security and reduce reliance on disrupted traditional supplies. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar provided a detailed briefing on Modi’s recent five-nation tour to the UAE, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy.
Reiterating directives to minimize bureaucratic hurdles, Modi called for simplified processes, faster decision-making, and avoidance of delays in file clearances. He advocated for greater transparency, effective dissemination of information about the government’s achievements over the past 12 years, and strengthened feedback mechanisms. Ministers were also encouraged to accelerate the rollout of central schemes that have lagged in certain states and to monitor their implementation closely.
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Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan presented an overview of broader governmental reform efforts and people-centric measures, while NITI Aayog member Rajiv Gauba also made a presentation. Modi underscored the goal of enhancing “ease of living” for citizens, ensuring that government actions bring tangible comfort to people’s lives without unnecessary interference. He urged ministers to focus on future targets and new objectives rather than resting on past accomplishments.
The meeting occurred against the backdrop of global uncertainties stemming from the West Asia situation, which the government has cited as a factor affecting the economy, fuel prices, and supply chains. Earlier this month, Modi had appealed for fiscal discipline, including reduced fuel and cooking gas consumption, restrained gold purchases, and limited non-essential foreign travel. Several government departments have since implemented measures such as work-from-home arrangements and smaller official convoys in response.
Ministers congratulated the Prime Minister on the success of his recent international engagements during the session.
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