LPG Crackdown Seizes 15,000 Cylinders and Government Monitors West Asia Supplies

The Government of India conducted an inter-ministerial briefing today at the National Media Centre to provide updates on developments in West Asia and domestic energy security. The briefing involved the Ministries of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and External Affairs , covering fuel supplies, maritime operations, and the status of Indian nationals in the region.

The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas reported that all refineries are operating at high capacity , maintaining sufficient crude inventories, and India remains self-sufficient in petrol and diesel . Retail outlets have reported no fuel dry-outs, and citizens are urged not to panic buy . Priority sectors continue to receive uninterrupted gas supplies, including 100% supply to PNG and CNG , while industrial and commercial supplies are regulated at around 80% . Urban commercial LPG consumers are encouraged to switch to PNG , with incentives offered by CGD companies such as IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas, and BPCL , and the government is fast-tracking CGD pipeline approvals in States and UTs.

Domestic LPG production has increased by 38% , online bookings have risen to about 94% , and Delivery Authentication Code coverage has expanded to 76% to prevent diversion. Enforcement actions have intensified, with over 12,000 raids conducted and more than 15,000 cylinders seized , especially in Delhi, Goa, UP, J&K, Kerala, and MP . PSU Oil Companies carried out over 2,500 surprise inspections at retail outlets and distributorships. Citizens are advised to rely on digital bookings , avoid panic bookings, and use alternate fuels such as PNG, kerosene, or electric cooktops . Booking intervals have been revised to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas to ensure equitable distribution.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported that all Indian seafarers in the Gulf are safe, with 22 Indian-flagged vessels being monitored. LPG carriers Shivalik and Nanda Devi have reached Indian ports, with cargo discharge underway. The MEA continues to assist Indian nationals, with over 2.44 lakh passengers repatriated since February 28, and Missions operating round-the-clock to provide support and advisories.

The government emphasized that it remains vigilant , coordinating among ministries, PSU companies, and State authorities to safeguard fuel, LPG, and natural gas supply, curb hoarding and black marketing, and ensure uninterrupted service to households and priority sectors.