new delhi, May 3
In view of the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia, the Government of India has intensified coordinated efforts to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies, secure maritime operations, and safeguard Indian nationals in the region.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) assured that adequate stocks of petrol, diesel, and LPG are available across the country, urging citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on official information. To ease pressure on conventional fuels, the government has encouraged the use of alternative energy sources such as PNG, electric, and induction cooking. Consumers have also been advised to opt for digital LPG booking to reduce crowding at distribution points. Despite supply disruptions linked to global tensions, the government has maintained 100% supply to domestic LPG, PNG, and CNG (transport) segments. Commercial LPG distribution has been prioritised for essential sectors such as healthcare, education, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing. Refinery output has been ramped up, while measures such as extending LPG refill intervals and boosting the availability of kerosene and coal have been implemented. States have been directed to expand PNG connections to reduce dependency on LPG, the MoPNG said.
State governments have been empowered under the Essential Commodities Act to act against hoarding and black marketing. Enforcement has intensified, with over 1,900 raids conducted nationwide recently. Oil marketing companies have penalised 349 LPG distributors and suspended 74 agencies for irregularities.
Control rooms and district monitoring committees have been set up across states to ensure supply discipline and counter misinformation.
While LPG supply remains affected due to the global situation, domestic distribution continues without major disruption. No “dry-outs” have been reported, and delivery systems have improved with 99% online bookings and 94% authentication-based deliveries.
The government has increased commercial LPG allocation to about 70% of pre-crisis levels, while expanding access to 5 kg cylinders for migrant workers, with over 23 lakh units distributed since April.
To ensure long-term energy security, the government is accelerating PNG and CNG adoption. Gas allocation to fertiliser plants has been increased to 98%, while other industrial sectors are receiving up to 80% supply.
