How India is Tackling LPG Shortages Amid Middle East Turmoil

As concerns about LPG shortages rise due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the Indian government is taking proactive measures to secure its supply. By diversifying its sources, including imports from the US, and implementing strict actions against black marketing, officials aim to ensure a steady flow of liquefied petroleum gas. With online bookings surging and a significant number of users transitioning to PNG, the government reassures that the situation remains under control. This article delves into the steps being taken to maintain energy security in India amidst global tensions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 19, 2026, 17:46 IST

Government's Response to LPG Supply Concerns

New Delhi: In light of worries regarding a potential LPG shortage, the Indian government announced on Thursday that it is expanding its sources for liquefied petroleum gas, including imports from the United States, to mitigate supply chain issues stemming from conflicts in the Middle East.

During a press briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, stated, "The ongoing conflict has raised concerns, but we have not received reports of any LPG shortages at distribution points. Online bookings have surged to 94 percent..."

Additionally, around 83 percent of refill deliveries are now being verified through delivery authentication codes.

"Panic buying has decreased, with about 5.7 million refill requests logged yesterday. LPG cylinder deliveries are continuing as usual," Sharma noted.

She also reassured that the crude oil supply and refinery operations in India are stable.

"We are fully supplying domestic PNG and CNG. We encourage users to transition from LPG to PNG. Over the past three days, more than 5,600 LPG users have made the switch to PNG," she added.

Sharma emphasized that any disruptions in the Middle East will have repercussions for India, prompting the country to diversify its oil and gas imports away from the region. Currently, 70 percent of India's oil imports are sourced from outside the Gulf, including countries like the US, Russia, and Nigeria.

The government has sent another communication to all states urging them to implement measures against black marketing and hoarding. Recently, 6,000 raids were conducted targeting black market activities.

"In Uttar Pradesh, 1,100 raids were executed, resulting in the seizure of 1,000 cylinders. In Madhya Pradesh, 1,632 raids led to the confiscation of 2,300 cylinders," she reported.

The Centre has called upon state governments to enforce laws against black marketing and hoarding, taking appropriate legal action where necessary.

According to information from state authorities, control rooms have been established in about 31 states and Union Territories, with district-level monitoring committees set up in approximately 25 states and UTs.

Meanwhile, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, confirmed that all Indian-flagged vessels and their crews are safe.

"There are currently 22 vessels west of the Strait of Hormuz. In the past 24 hours, over 16 Indian seafarers have returned home after completing their sign-off procedures. The ministry is closely monitoring shipping activities and the situation in West Asia," he stated.