Govt Assures Fuel Stability, Maritime Safety and Citizen Support Amid West Asia Developments

As geopolitical developments in West Asia continue to evolve, the Government of India has stepped up coordinated efforts across ministries to ensure energy security, maritime stability, and the safety of Indian nationals abroad.

At a high-level media briefing held at the National Media Centre, officials from the Ministries of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and External Affairs outlined a comprehensive response strategy covering fuel supply management, shipping operations, and citizen assistance mechanisms.

Fuel Supply Remains Stable; Citizens Urged to Avoid Panic Buying

The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas reassured that adequate supplies of petrol, diesel, LPG, PNG, and CNG are being maintained nationwide, despite global uncertainties.

Key advisories for citizens include:

• Avoid panic buying of fuel and LPG

• Rely only on official information sources

• Use digital LPG booking platforms

• Adopt alternate fuels like PNG or electric cooking

• Practice energy conservation

The government confirmed that 100% supply is being maintained for domestic LPG, PNG, and CNG, with prioritisation for essential sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.

Strong Supply Management Measures in Place

To stabilise supply and demand, several measures have been implemented:

• Increased refinery output and domestic LPG production

• Extended LPG booking intervals (urban: 25 days; rural: up to 45 days)

• Additional coal supply through Coal India and Singareni Collieries

• Promotion of PNG connections and alternate fuels

• Doubling supply of 5 kg LPG cylinders for migrant workers

Since April 1, over 17.83 lakh 5 kg cylinders have been distributed, reflecting targeted support for vulnerable populations.

Crackdown on Hoarding and Black Marketing

Enforcement actions have intensified nationwide:

• Over 2,300 raids conducted in a single day

• Penalties imposed on 307 LPG distributors

• 70 distributorships suspended

States and Union Territories have activated control rooms and monitoring committees, backed by powers under the Essential Commodities Act to curb hoarding and ensure fair distribution.

Retail Fuel Prices Stable Despite Global Spike

While global crude prices have surged due to the Middle East situation, the government has taken steps to shield consumers:

• Excise duty reduced by ₹10 per litre on petrol and diesel

• Export levies increased to ensure domestic availability

• Retail prices at PSU outlets remain unchanged

All fuel retail outlets across the country are operating normally, with no reported shortages.

Push for Cleaner Fuels and PNG Expansion

To reduce dependence on LPG and enhance energy security, the government is accelerating the transition to natural gas:

• Over 5.27 lakh new PNG connections activated since March 2026

• Infrastructure created for an additional 2.60 lakh connections

• More than 42,000 consumers have shifted from LPG to PNG

The National PNG Drive 2.0 has been extended, supported by fast-track approvals and policy reforms to expand city gas distribution networks.

Maritime Operations Stable; Seafarers Safe

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed that maritime operations remain stable, with no disruptions reported:

• No incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the past 24 hours

• All Indian seafarers in the region are safe

• Over 2,729 seafarers repatriated, including 49 in the last 24 hours

The DG Shipping Control Room is functioning 24×7, handling thousands of calls and emails to assist maritime stakeholders.

Government Ensures Safety of Indian Nationals Abroad

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is actively monitoring the situation and supporting Indian citizens in the region:

• Dedicated special control rooms operational

• Indian embassies running round-the-clock helplines

• Continuous coordination with local governments and Indian community groups

Evacuation and travel updates:

• Over 12.38 lakh passengers have returned to India since February 28

• Flights are operating (with limitations) from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Iraq

• 2,432 Indians evacuated from Iran via land routes

Advisories remain in place urging citizens to follow official guidance and avoid high-risk travel zones.

Coordinated Whole-of-Government Response

The briefing highlighted a multi-ministerial coordination framework ensuring:

• Energy supply stability

• Protection of critical sectors (pharma, agriculture, industry)

• Maritime safety and logistics continuity

• Citizen welfare and evacuation support

Regular review meetings with States/UTs and industry stakeholders are being held to maintain real-time responsiveness and transparency.

A Balanced Approach to Crisis Management

The Government’s response reflects a balanced approach—ensuring supply stability, preventing panic, and safeguarding citizens—while preparing for evolving global conditions.

With robust infrastructure, proactive policy measures, and coordinated governance, India continues to maintain resilience in the face of external disruptions, ensuring that essential services and public welfare remain unaffected.