SRINAGAR: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Thursday asserted that India’s petroleum and LPG supply situation remains “fully secure and under control,” rejecting reports of shortages and cautioning citizens against a “deliberately mischievous” misinformation campaign aimed at creating panic.
In an official statement, the Ministry said all retail fuel outlets across the country are adequately stocked, with no disruption in the supply of petrol, diesel, or LPG.
The government underlined that there is no shortage or rationing of petrol and diesel anywhere in the country, with over one lakh fuel stations operating normally.
India, described as the world’s fourth-largest refiner and fifth-largest exporter of petroleum products, continues to maintain robust domestic availability due to its net exporter status. “Not a single outlet has been asked to ration supply,” the statement said.
The Ministry acknowledged isolated instances of panic buying at select locations, attributing them to misleading content circulated on social media. Oil companies have since ramped up supplies, with depots operating overnight and credit limits to fuel stations extended to ensure uninterrupted availability.
Addressing concerns linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, the government said India’s crude oil supply chain remains unaffected.
Crude sourcing from over 41 international suppliers has more than compensated for any disruption, with Indian refineries operating at over 100 percent capacity. Supplies for the next 60 days have already been secured, ensuring there is no supply gap.
Countering claims of critically low reserves, the Ministry clarified that India currently has around 60 days of stock cover, against a total reserve capacity of 74 days, including crude, petroleum products, and strategic reserves.
This level of availability, even amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, ensures a stable supply for consumers. Reports suggesting otherwise were termed “misleading” and “baseless.”
The Ministry also dismissed concerns over LPG shortages, stating that domestic production has been increased by 40 percent, now meeting more than 60 percent of daily demand.
With 800 thousand metric tonnes of LPG cargoes already secured from countries including the United States, Russia, and Australia, and distributed through 22 import terminals, supply remains stable.
Daily delivery of LPG cylinders has normalized to around 50 lakh units, after a temporary spike caused by panic ordering. Measures have also been taken to prevent hoarding and black marketing.
The government clarified that the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is part of a long-term clean energy strategy, not a response to any shortage.
Domestic gas production currently meets a significant portion of demand, while PNG connections have expanded rapidly across the country. The Ministry emphasised that LPG supply remains secure and unaffected.
Expressing concern over viral posts and videos, the Ministry said misleading content has falsely depicted fuel shortages and emergency measures in India by using unrelated global visuals and fabricated claims.
It urged citizens to rely only on official communication and warned that spreading false information about essential commodities is punishable under the law.
The government reiterated that India’s energy supply chain remains robust, with sufficient reserves, diversified sourcing, and strong domestic production ensuring uninterrupted availability of fuel and LPG across the country.
