New Delhi, India – March 17, 2026
Amid rising global concerns over energy supply disruptions due to tensions in West Asia, the Indian government has assured citizens that there is no shortage of LPG or fuel in the country and urged people to avoid panic buying.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas confirmed that India currently holds adequate crude oil reserves, ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply across the nation.
Government Urges Calm, Assures Delivery
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the ministry, appealed to citizens to avoid rumors and unnecessary panic, stating that LPG cylinders will continue to be delivered to households as usual.
“Do not panic. LPG cylinders will be delivered to your homes after booking,” she said, while also encouraging people to use LPG efficiently and consider switching to piped natural gas (PNG) where possible.
Strong Measures to Ensure Supply Stability
The government has taken coordinated steps to safeguard energy supply chains, market stability, and citizen safety. While the Ministry of External Affairs is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts related to global energy security, domestic ministries are ensuring smooth logistics and fuel availability.
Authorities have also intensified action against elements attempting to disrupt supply.
Crackdown on LPG Hoarding
To prevent artificial shortages, enforcement agencies have carried out nationwide inspections and raids:
12,000 raids conducted across the country
15,000 LPG cylinders seized
State-Level Actions:
Delhi & Uttar Pradesh: 600 cylinders seized in Delhi; 10 arrests in UP during 450 inspections
Jammu & Kashmir: 564 raids, FIRs registered, and arrests made
Kerala: 1,000 inspections leading to seizure of domestic and commercial cylinders
Madhya Pradesh: 1,800 cylinders seized in 1,200 raids
Additionally, oil marketing companies conducted surprise inspections at 2,500 retail outlets and LPG distributors.
Fuel Availability Remains Stable
Officials confirmed that petrol, diesel, and natural gas supplies remain sufficient. The government is also promoting PNG adoption among commercial users as a more efficient alternative.
Global Diplomatic Efforts Underway
On the international front, India is actively engaging in discussions on energy security. External Affairs officials highlighted recent participation in high-level meetings in Europe, focusing on the impact of West Asian tensions and the need for diplomatic resolution.
Shipping and Supply Chain Update
The Ministry of Shipping confirmed that all Indian sailors and vessels in the Gulf region are safe. In the past 24 hours, 161 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated.
On the logistics front:
LPG carrier ‘Nanda Devi’ arrived at Kandla Port at 2:30 AM
Cargo from both ‘Shivalik’ and ‘Nanda Devi’ is being discharged smoothly
Port operations remain fully streamlined
Authorities also dismissed reports of container congestion at Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNPA) as baseless, confirming that all cargo is properly managed as per policy.
The government continues to closely monitor developments in West Asia, with a key parliamentary committee meeting on foreign affairs scheduled for March 18.
