West Asia Crisis: Over 18 crore LPG cylinders delivered, 602 LMT food stocks available — Here’s what govt says

India has moved swiftly to stabilise its energy and food supply chains amid escalating tensions involving Iran and the wider West Asia region, with the government asserting that crude oil supplies remain fully secured even as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) imports face disruptions. Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing in New Delhi on April 6, officials said India has tied up all crude cargoes, ensured uninterrupted fuel availability, and prioritised household energy needs, while closely monitoring food stocks and prices. The reassurance comes at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty affecting global energy routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.

Crude oil secured, refineries running at peak capacity

Officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas underlined that India’s crude oil procurement remains stable despite global disruptions. All required cargoes have been secured in advance, ensuring there is no immediate risk to fuel supplies.

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Domestic refineries are operating at peak capacity, with some units exceeding 100 per cent utilisation. This has allowed India to maintain adequate stocks of petrol and diesel across the country. Retail fuel outlets are functioning normally, and there have been no reports of shortages in any region.

To shield consumers from global price volatility, the government has also adjusted fiscal measures, including reducing excise duty on petrol and diesel and imposing export duties to ensure domestic availability.

LPG under pressure as 60% imports impacted

While crude remains stable, LPG supply has emerged as a pressure point. Officials acknowledged that around 60 per cent of India’s LPG imports were earlier sourced from regions now affected by geopolitical tensions.

To manage the disruption, domestic LPG production has been ramped up to over 46,000–47,000 metric tonnes. However, due to technical constraints linked to refinery configurations, this increase cannot fully offset import losses.

The government has therefore prioritised household consumption. Commercial LPG supplies were initially reduced sharply - at one stage nearing zero - before being gradually restored to about 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels.

18 crore cylinders delivered, 97% bookings now online

Despite supply challenges, domestic LPG distribution remains stable. More than 18 crore cylinders have been delivered to households since March 1, 2026, officials said.

Online LPG booking has surged to nearly 97 per cent, while delivery authentication through OTP now covers about 90 per cent of transactions, improving transparency and reducing leakages.

To support vulnerable populations, especially migrant workers and those without formal connections, the government has expanded access to 5-kg free trade LPG cylinders. Over 6.75 lakh such cylinders have been sold since March 23, with daily sales rising sharply in recent weeks.

Crackdown On Black Marketing: 1 lakh raids, 52,000 cylinders seized

Authorities have intensified enforcement to prevent hoarding and black marketing. Over one lakh inspections have been conducted nationwide, leading to the seizure of around 52,000 cylinders.

More than 850 FIRs have been registered and about 220 individuals arrested. Oil marketing companies have issued over 1,500 show-cause notices, penalised 118 distributors, and suspended 41.

Officials said states have been directed to maintain strict vigilance and conduct regular briefings to counter misinformation.

PNG, CNG protected; fertiliser supply rises to 90%

To manage natural gas shortages following supply disruptions, the government has prioritised key sectors. Domestic PNG users and CNG transport continue to receive 100 per cent supply.

Fertiliser plants, which were earlier receiving around 70–75 per cent of their gas requirement, are now being ramped up to nearly 90 per cent as availability improves. Additional allocations have also been made to city gas distribution networks across 17 states and union territories.

The government is also accelerating the expansion of piped natural gas infrastructure to reduce dependence on LPG in the long term.

Food Security Intact: 602 LMT buffer stock, prices stable

Alongside energy, the government reassured that food security remains robust. India currently holds around 602 lakh metric tonnes of foodgrain stocks, including wheat and rice, sufficient to meet both public distribution needs and emergencies.

Officials said there has been no unusual volatility in the prices of essential commodities. Pulses production is estimated at 266 lakh metric tonnes this year, higher than last year’s 257 lakh metric tonnes, further strengthening supply.

Edible oil and sugar availability also remain comfortable, with inflation under control. The government continues to intervene in markets through the Open Market Sale Scheme to stabilise prices where necessary.

Strait of Hormuz monitored, Indian vessels safe

Shipping routes remain under close watch amid regional tensions. Two Indian-flagged LPG vessels - Green Sanvi and Green Asha have safely transited the Strait of Hormuz in recent days, carrying significant cargo.

At present, 16 Indian-flagged vessels with 433 Indian seafarers are operating in the Western Persian Gulf region. Officials confirmed that no incidents involving Indian vessels have been reported in the past 24 hours.

1,777 Indians evacuated from Iran, situation under watch

On the diplomatic front, India has evacuated 1,777 nationals from Iran via Armenia and Azerbaijan, including 895 students. The government said it remains in constant touch with countries in the region and is closely monitoring the evolving situation.

Officials reiterated that the safety and well-being of Indian citizens abroad remains a top priority, with embassies operating round the clock and special control rooms active. The government has urged citizens not to panic buy fuel or LPG, emphasising that supplies remain adequate and distribution systems are functioning smoothly.