The Government announced that despite geopolitical tensions in West Asia, over 18 crore domestic LPG cylinders have been successfully delivered to households since March 1, 2026. At a briefing in the National Media Centre in New Delhi, officials reassured the public of stable fuel and food supplies, highlighting the availability of adequate buffer stocks of rice and wheat to meet the demand. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas stated that domestic LPG cylinder deliveries have been normal, with online bookings accounting for 97% of orders and delivery authentication codes used in 90% of deliveries to prevent diversion.
On the energy front, domestic LPG supply has remained smooth even with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry reported that total commercial LPG allocation has been increased to around 70% of pre-crisis levels, with an additional 10% reform-linked allocation. Moreover, since March 23, approximately 6.75 lakh 5-kg free trade LPG cylinders have been sold. Public sector oil marketing companies have conducted over one lakh raids, seized more than 52,000 cylinders, and taken strict actions against hoarding and black marketing.
The government is prioritizing natural gas supply to domestic PNG, CNG, urea plants, and commercial sectors. Plans are underway to increase gas supply to fertiliser plants to 90% of average consumption and provide an extra 10% to city gas distribution networks. Additionally, it was confirmed that sufficient buffer stocks of rice and wheat are being maintained to ensure uninterrupted supply under the Public Distribution System (PDS) and for any emergency requirements. The ministry emphasized that the food security situation is being closely monitored in light of the developments in West Asia.
