Modi holds 4-hour meet with ministers on energy, 'Viksit Bharat'
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a four-and-a-half-hour meeting with his council of ministers on Thursday evening. The meeting, which was the first in almost a year, focused on energy security and the government's commitment to "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) by 2047. It also reviewed the work of nine key sectors, including the economy, agriculture, and energy, amid challenges posed by the war in West Asia.
Administrative efficiency
Reforms and quick delivery in administration stressed
During the meeting, PM Modi stressed the need for reforms and quick delivery in administration. He urged ministers to cut red tape and ensure transparency in government functioning. According to Hindustan Times, which cited people aware of the matter, Modi said files should not linger from table to table, and the processes should be simplified. The PM also asked for better dissemination of the government's achievements over the past 12 years and emphasized sharpening feedback mechanisms.
Sectoral review
Presentations on 9 key sectors
The meeting also saw presentations on nine key sectors such as power, agriculture, labor, and foreign affairs. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar gave a separate presentation on PM Modi's recent five-nation visit. The PM asked ministers to ensure the quick implementation of central schemes lagging in some states and to closely monitor their progress. He reportedly stressed that the government cannot rest on past achievements.
Economic focus
Meeting came amid opposition criticism over economic issues
The meeting also came amid opposition criticism over economic issues like rising unemployment, agrarian crisis, and rising prices of essentials and fuel. The government has blamed these challenges on global disruptions due to the West Asia conflict. Earlier this month, PM Modi had called for fiscal discipline by reducing fuel consumption, limiting gold purchases, and avoiding non-essential overseas travel. Following his advice, government departments have announced work-from-home days and reduced official convoys.