CENTRE ENSURES STABLE FUEL SUPPLY, BOOSTS LPG ALLOCATION

New Delhi, Mar 23, 2026 : The Centre has stepped up measures across key sectors to ensure stability in essential supplies and services amid the evolving situation in West Asia, even as the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas on Sunday emphasised that there is no cause for panic.

Energy and Fuel Supply Stable:

Despite disruptions linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the government said domestic supplies of petrol, diesel, and LPG remain stable. Refineries across the country are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories, while oil marketing companies have reported no fuel shortages at retail outlets.

The government reiterated its appeal to citizens to avoid panic buying, noting that supplies are being maintained regularly. Domestic LPG deliveries continue as normal, and panic bookings have declined in recent days.

To ease pressure on LPG demand, the government is actively promoting the use of piped natural gas (PNG). City gas distribution companies such as Indraprastha Gas Limited, Mahanagar Gas Limited, GAIL Gas Limited, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited are offering incentives to encourage households and commercial establishments to switch to PNG.

The government has also directed authorities to fast-track approvals for expanding gas infrastructure and urged states to facilitate new PNG connections for both domestic and commercial users.

Commercial LPG Allocation Increased:

To support key sectors, the Centre has increased the allocation of commercial LPG to states to 50 percent, prioritising essential services such as hospitals, educational institutions, community kitchens, and food supply chains. About half of the total commercial LPG allocation is currently being directed to hospitals and educational institutions.

Additionally, an extra allocation of kerosene has been provided to states as an alternative fuel option to further ease demand pressures.

Crackdown on Hoarding and Black Marketing:

Authorities have intensified enforcement actions to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG and other essential commodities. Around 3,500 raids have been conducted across states, resulting in the seizure of over 1,200 cylinders.

State governments have been directed to maintain strict vigilance under the Essential Commodities Act and related laws. Control rooms and district-level monitoring committees have been set up in most states and Union Territories to oversee the supply situation and ensure transparency.

Ports and Shipping Operations Normal:

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) confirmed that port operations across India remain smooth, with no congestion reported. Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers in the region are safe, and shipping movements are being closely monitored.

A total of 22 Indian-flagged vessels with over 600 Indian seafarers remain in the western Persian Gulf, with authorities maintaining round-the-clock coordination. More than 500 seafarers have been repatriated so far, including several in the past 24 hours.

Focus on Indian Nationals Abroad:

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) continues to monitor developments closely, with the safety of Indian nationals in the region as the top priority. Missions across West Asia are operating 24×7, providing assistance, issuing advisories, and coordinating with local authorities.

Since the escalation began on February 28, over 3.5 lakh passengers have returned to India. While some airspaces in the region remain closed, alternative travel arrangements are being facilitated through countries such as Saudi Arabia.

The MEA confirmed that six Indian nationals have lost their lives, while one remains missing. Efforts are underway to trace the missing individual and repatriate the mortal remains of the deceased.

Government Urges Public Cooperation:

The government has urged citizens to rely only on official information, avoid panic bookings, and adopt energy conservation practices. People have also been encouraged to explore alternative cooking options such as PNG and electric appliances.

The government said the situation in West Asia is being closely monitored, and coordinated efforts across ministries and states are aimed at ensuring minimal disruption to citizens and the economy.