The government categorically stated that fuel availability stands at 100 percent, with all petrol pumps operating normally and no reports of shortages. Citizens have been advised against panic-driven purchases and warned not to pay attention to rumors. To ensure uninterrupted LPG availability, production has been increased, and contingency plans involving alternative fuels such as kerosene and coal have been activated.
Significant relief measures have been extended to the textile and handicrafts sectors. The Ministry of Textiles confirmed that natural gas supply to these industries has been maintained at 80 percent of their average consumption over the past six months under a priority classification. In addition, customs duties on 29 key inputs have been deferred, while efforts are ongoing to eliminate duties on raw materials, including cotton. Recommendations have also been made to remove or suspend anti-dumping duties on inputs such as EFY and VFY to support downstream industries.
The government has intensified its crackdown on LPG hoarding and black marketing. Since March 2026, authorities have seized over 67,000 cylinders, registered more than 1,160 First Information Reports, and arrested 271 individuals. Penalties have been imposed on 316 LPG dealers, while 72 dealers have been suspended. Monitoring mechanisms have been strengthened through the establishment of control rooms and district-level committees across states.
To reduce pressure on LPG consumption, the government is promoting the adoption of piped natural gas and electric cooking solutions. More than 42,800 consumers have voluntarily surrendered their LPG connections through the MYPNGD platform. Since March 2026, approximately 560,000 new piped natural gas connections have been issued, with infrastructure prepared for over 824,000 connections.
Reinforcing supply resilience, all domestic refineries are operating at full capacity with adequate crude oil reserves. Since April 9, 2026, refineries in Mumbai, Kochi, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Mathura have supplied over 8,300 metric tonnes of propylene and 870 metric tonnes of butyl acrylate to industrial sectors. Additionally, a daily supply of 1,000 metric tonnes of LPG has been ensured for the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.
The government also highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of Indian citizens and seafarers in the Gulf region. More than 2,800 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated so far, including 24 individuals in the past 24 hours. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that 24×7 helplines and control rooms are operational to assist Indian nationals, with additional flights being deployed as required. Air connectivity from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait to India remains operational, with conditions steadily improving. However, Indian citizens have been advised to avoid travel to Iran until further notice.
The government reiterated that it is closely monitoring the evolving situation and remains prepared to take immediate decisions to protect national supply chains and ensure the safety of its citizens, underscoring its commitment to maintaining stability during a period of global uncertainty.
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