New Delhi, India – March 20, 2026
” India Steps In Amid Crisis: The government unveils a ₹497 crore relief package for exporters hit by West Asia tensions, offering 95% insurance cover and major cost support to stabilize trade “
India Export Relief Package: The Government of India has announced a ₹497 crore relief package to support exporters affected by the ongoing West Asia crisis, offering up to 95% insurance coverage and financial assistance to ease disruptions.
The Ministry of Commerce has launched the Resilience and Logistics Intervention for Export Facilitation (RELIEF) scheme to help exporters facing rising costs, delayed shipments, and logistical challenges due to geopolitical tensions in the region.
95% Insurance Cover for Export Shipments
Under the new scheme, exporters shipping goods to or through key West Asian countries—including the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Iran, Israel, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Iraq—will receive up to 95% insurance coverage on consignments.
Additionally, exporters not covered under the Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) will be eligible for up to 50% reimbursement of additional freight and insurance costs.
The government has designated ECGC as the implementing agency responsible for verification, claims processing, distribution, and risk coverage.
Focus on 17–18 Impacted Export Regions
According to Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, the scheme specifically targets exporters operating across 17–18 regions significantly impacted by the crisis.
The initiative is part of a broader export promotion strategy aimed at minimizing disruptions and ensuring continuity in trade flows.
Three Key Components of the RELIEF Scheme
The package includes three major support mechanisms:
1. Export Obligation Extension:
Deadlines for Advance Authorization and EPCG licenses due between March 1 and May 31, 2026, will be automatically extended until August 31 without penalties.
2. Enhanced Insurance Support:
ECGC coverage will be expanded and facilitated for shipments between March 16 and June 15, ensuring smoother export operations during uncertain conditions.
3. MSME Cost Relief:
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) will receive partial reimbursement for unusually high freight and insurance costs incurred between February 14 and March 14, even if not covered under ECGC.
Inter-Ministerial Monitoring Group Formed
The government has also established an inter-ministerial group to assess evolving logistics and trade conditions daily. The group will monitor shipping routes, disruptions, and risk levels to enable timely interventions.
Energy Data Brought Under Mandatory Disclosure
In a parallel move, the government has removed confidentiality restrictions on energy-related data amid rising concerns over supply disruptions.
Under new directives issued by the Petroleum Ministry, companies across the oil and gas sector—including refineries, LNG importers, pipeline operators, and city gas distributors—must now report detailed operational data covering production, imports, stock levels, and consumption.
This step aims to strengthen India’s energy security framework, improve supply chain monitoring, and ensure priority allocation for critical sectors such as power, fertilizers, and domestic LPG.
