West Asia Inter-Ministerial Briefing: Govt details on LPG supply, PNG expansion, safe return of Indians & shipping operations

In a high-level inter-ministerial briefing, the Government of India reassured the public about fuel availability, maritime safety, and the welfare of Indian nationals amid evolving tensions in West Asia. According to the government release, senior officials from multiple ministries outlined coordinated efforts to maintain stability and ensure uninterrupted essential services across the country.

Petrol, Diesel and LPG Supply Remains Stable

The government confirmed that petrol pumps and retail outlets across India are functioning normally, with sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel available nationwide. Refineries are operating at high capacity, maintaining adequate crude reserves to meet demand.

Domestic LPG production has been ramped up to support consumption, while authorities emphasised that there are no reports of supply shortages at distributorships. Citizens have been urged to avoid panic buying and rely only on verified information.

Government Prioritises Domestic LPG and PNG Supply

The Centre continues to give top priority to domestic LPG and piped natural gas (PNG) supply, particularly for households and essential services such as hospitals and educational institutions.

To support this, additional allocations of commercial LPG have been approved, with total supply now reaching up to 50% for non-domestic users, including restaurants, hotels and community kitchens. So far, 26 States and Union Territories have issued allocation orders.

Push for PNG Expansion Across India

The government has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, under the Essential Commodities Act. This policy introduces a time-bound framework for expanding pipeline infrastructure nationwide.

The initiative aims to accelerate PNG connections, improve last-mile connectivity, and promote cleaner fuel usage. On a single day alone, over 9,000 new PNG connections were recorded across 110 geographical areas.

City Gas Distribution companies have also been directed to prioritise PNG connections for institutions such as schools, hostels and community kitchens.

Measures to Prevent Hoarding and Black Marketing

State governments and Union Territories have been directed to take strict action against hoarding and black marketing under the Essential Commodities Act.

Enforcement agencies have intensified inspections, conducting thousands of raids and surprise checks. So far, more than 650 FIRs have been registered and over 150 individuals arrested in connection with violations.

District authorities are actively monitoring supply chains and ensuring fair distribution of fuel and LPG.

Public Advisory: Avoid Panic Buying and Conserve Energy

The government has issued a public advisory urging citizens to remain calm and avoid unnecessary purchases of fuel and LPG.

People are encouraged to:

• Use digital platforms for LPG bookings
• Adopt alternative fuels such as PNG or electric cooktops
• Practise energy conservation in daily life

These measures aim to ease pressure on supply systems and ensure equitable distribution.

Maritime Operations Continue Without Disruption

According to updates from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, India’s maritime operations remain stable despite regional tensions.

All Indian seafarers in the region are reported safe, and no incidents involving Indian vessels have occurred recently. Around 20 Indian-flagged ships continue to operate in the Persian Gulf region under close monitoring.

Major ports across India are functioning smoothly, with additional arrangements made to handle cargo efficiently.

Safe Repatriation of Indian Seafarers and Nationals

The Directorate General of Shipping has successfully facilitated the return of over 635 Indian seafarers so far. Control rooms remain operational ????? the clock to assist seafarers and their families.

Meanwhile, large-scale evacuation and travel support efforts continue for Indian nationals in West Asia. Since 28 February, approximately 4.26 lakh passengers have returned to India through over 2,000 flights.

Indian missions across the region are actively assisting citizens with travel, documentation, and emergency support.

Government Engages Globally to Ensure Stability

India’s leadership is closely monitoring the situation, engaging with global counterparts to ensure regional stability and uninterrupted energy supplies.

Discussions with international leaders have highlighted the importance of keeping critical maritime routes open and maintaining global energy security.