New Delhi, Apr 26: The Government of India on Sunday said there is no shortage of LPG or other petroleum products in the country despite the evolving situation in West Asia, assuring that supply chains remain stable and adequate measures are in place to meet demand.
In an official statement, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said more than 51.8 lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered on April 25, with no dry-outs reported at distributorships across the country. The government urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on official information.
The advisory comes amid concerns linked to the geopolitical situation around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. Authorities said 100 per cent supply is being maintained for domestic LPG, piped natural gas (PNG), and compressed natural gas (CNG), while priority allocation has been ensured for essential sectors including hospitals, education, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
To stabilise supply, the government has increased refinery production, extended LPG booking intervals, and made alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal available. It has also encouraged citizens to adopt PNG and electric cooking solutions to ease pressure on LPG demand.
Officials said strict monitoring mechanisms are in place to prevent hoarding and black marketing. Over 2,100 raids were conducted nationwide, with penalties imposed on 310 LPG distributorships and 70 suspended for violations.
The government also highlighted a significant push towards PNG adoption, noting that over 5.45 lakh connections have been activated since March, while more than 42,500 consumers have voluntarily surrendered LPG connections. Infrastructure for an additional 2.62 lakh PNG connections has also been created.
On the supply front, commercial LPG availability has been raised to about 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels, with special provisions for migrant labourers through increased distribution of 5 kg cylinders.
Meanwhile, retail fuel outlets across the country are operating normally, with adequate stocks of petrol and diesel. To cushion consumers from rising global crude prices, the Centre has reduced excise duty on fuel, while also increasing export levies to ensure domestic availability.
The government said coordinated efforts with states and Union Territories are ongoing under the Essential Commodities Act, with control rooms and monitoring committees activated to ensure smooth distribution and prevent misinformation.
In addition to energy security, the Centre also reviewed maritime and diaspora-related measures. More than 2,764 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated from the Gulf region so far, including 24 in the last 24 hours, while around 12.96 lakh passengers have travelled from the region to India since February 28.
The government reiterated that it remains fully prepared to manage the evolving situation, emphasising that citizens should conserve energy and cooperate with authorities to maintain stability.
