The Government of India on Tuesday launched a comprehensive multi-sectoral response to the escalating situation in West Asia, focusing on stabilising domestic fuel supplies, expanding gas infrastructure, and ensuring the safety of Indian nationals abroad.
In a detailed update, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Ministry of External Affairs outlined a series of rationalisation measures to mitigate the impact of disruptions caused by the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
To address Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) shortages, the government has shifted focus towards expanding Piped Natural Gas (PNG) infrastructure and prioritising supply for vulnerable groups.
Booking intervals for domestic LPG cylinders have been extended to 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural regions to prevent shortages, while the supply of 5 kg Free Trade LPG cylinders for migrant workers has been doubled.
Since March 2026, around 4.40 lakh new PNG connections have been activated, with nearly five lakh additional consumers registered. States are also being incentivised to transition to PNG through additional commercial LPG allocations.
Amid rising global crude prices, the government has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre and increased export levies on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) to ensure adequate domestic availability.
Advising against panic buying, the Petroleum Ministry said all efforts are being made to maintain uninterrupted supply. States have been empowered under the Essential Commodities Act to curb hoarding, with over 2,950 enforcement raids conducted nationwide on April 13, including a major seizure of illegal cylinders in Kerala.
On the maritime front, authorities reported normal port operations with no congestion. The Directorate General of Shipping’s control room has facilitated the repatriation of over 2,262 Indian seafarers and remains in constant communication with vessels operating in the Gulf region.
Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has engaged with counterparts from Kuwait, Israel, Singapore and Australia to review the evolving situation and ensure the welfare of the Indian diaspora.
Evacuation and transit arrangements have been expanded, with over 2,300 nationals moved from Iran to neighbouring countries such as Armenia and Azerbaijan for onward travel to India. Additional routes have been activated via Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt, while limited flights continue from the UAE and Qatar.
Since February 28, nearly 9.55 lakh passengers have returned to India from West Asia, with Indian missions operating round-the-clock helplines to assist citizens and maritime personnel in the region.
