India's Fuel Stocks Remain Strong Amid Global Uncertainty

India Fuel Supply Update: No Shortage of Petrol, Diesel, LPG; Government Dismisses Lockdown Rumors​

India Maintains Adequate Fuel Stocks Amid West Asia Crisis​

New Delhi, March 27: India currently holds sufficient stocks of petrol, diesel, and LPG to last at least two months under normal consumption patterns, the government confirmed on Friday, assuring citizens of uninterrupted fuel availability despite supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing war in West Asia.

Officials stated that the country has around 60 days of crude oil stock cover, along with one month of LPG supply already secured. Authorities emphasized that there is no shortage of key fuels across the country.

Government Rules Out Lockdown, Calls Rumors Misleading​

The government firmly rejected speculation about any potential lockdown due to energy supply concerns. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, clarified during a media briefing that such a move is not under consideration.

She highlighted that panic buying and long queues reported in some regions were driven by misinformation and rumors rather than any real supply constraint.

Petrol Pumps Operating Normally Across India​

According to officials, petrol pumps nationwide are fully stocked and functioning without disruption. There is no rationing of petrol or diesel, and supply chains remain stable.

Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri also reiterated that the government is actively taking all necessary steps to ensure continuous availability of fuel and other essential energy supplies.

India Diversifies Energy Imports to Offset Supply Disruptions​

India, which depends on imports for a significant portion of its energy needs, has taken steps to counter disruptions caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The country sources 88 percent of its crude oil, around half of its natural gas, and 60 percent of its LPG demand through imports. A substantial portion of these supplies typically comes from Gulf nations.

To address the current situation, India has diversified sourcing:

• Crude oil is being procured from West Africa, Latin America, and the United States
• LNG supplies are being sourced from Australia and the United States
• LPG imports have been secured from the United States, Russia, and Australia

Additionally, domestic LPG production has been increased by 40 percent by redirecting inputs from petrochemical streams.

LPG Supply Gradually Restored for Commercial Use​

In response to the crisis, LPG supplies were initially prioritized for domestic households, with commercial supply reduced significantly. However, allocations have been progressively restored:

• Initially cut to zero for commercial users
• Later increased to 20 percent, then 50 percent
• Now raised to 70 percent of pre-crisis levels

Priority in commercial allocation is being given to key industries such as steel, automobiles, and textiles.

Measures Taken to Control Prices and Ensure Domestic Availability​

To shield consumers from rising global oil prices, the government has implemented several fiscal and regulatory measures:

• Excise duty on petrol and diesel reduced by Rs 10 per litre
• Export duties imposed: Rs 21.5 per litre on diesel and Rs 29.5 per litre on ATF
• Refiners directed to divert 50 percent of petrol and 30 percent of diesel exports to the domestic market

These steps aim to stabilize domestic fuel availability and pricing.

Enforcement Intensified Against Hoarding and Black Marketing​

Authorities have increased enforcement actions to curb hoarding and illegal activities. More than 3,000 raids have been conducted, resulting in the seizure of over 1,500 LPG cylinders.

States have been urged to strengthen monitoring and improve public communication to prevent panic-driven behavior.

Natural Gas Supply Remains Stable​

The government confirmed that natural gas supply for households and transport sectors remains fully protected. Industrial supply is being maintained at approximately 80 percent of normal levels, supported by ongoing expansion of city gas distribution infrastructure.

Government Urges Public to Avoid Panic Buying​

Officials have advised citizens to remain calm and avoid unnecessary stockpiling of fuel. Consumers are encouraged to rely on official updates and consider alternative energy options such as piped natural gas and electric cooking solutions where available.

The government reiterated that India remains well-prepared to manage emerging challenges and ensure energy security during the ongoing global uncertainty.