Centre Reviews Fuel Supply Nationwide, Urges States to Crack Down on Hoarding and Ensure LPG Stability

The Government of India has conducted a nationwide review of fuel supply, with Secretary (Petroleum) chairing a high-level meeting with Additional Chief Secretaries and Principal Secretaries (Food & Civil Supplies) from all States and Union Territories to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential petroleum products.

The review comes amid evolving supply dynamics, with the Centre emphasizing proactive coordination between states and oil companies to maintain stability and prevent disruption.

Focus on LPG Supply and Public Confidence

During the meeting, the Secretary highlighted key measures undertaken by the government to stabilise fuel supply chains, particularly Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which remains critical for household consumption and essential services.

States and UTs were directed to:

• Prioritise LPG distribution for domestic consumers and essential sectors

• Ensure uninterrupted supply across urban and rural areas

• Monitor supply chains closely to prevent bottlenecks

The emphasis was on maintaining consumer confidence and avoiding panic-driven demand spikes.

Crackdown on Hoarding and Misinformation

A key concern discussed was the need to curb malpractices such as hoarding, diversion, and black marketing, as well as the spread of misinformation.

States were advised to:

• Intensify enforcement actions and inspections

• Take strict punitive action against offenders

• Actively counter false rumours related to fuel shortages

Several states—including Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana, Delhi, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh—were commended for conducting raids and enforcement drives to curb irregularities.

Special Measures for Migrant Workers and Urban Demand

Addressing concerns over LPG availability for migrant workers, states clarified that:

• There is no disruption in LPG supply affecting migrant populations

• Supplies remain stable across regions

However, to enhance accessibility, states were advised to explore targeted distribution of 5 kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders, particularly in high-demand urban clusters, in coordination with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

Managing LPG Demand in Transport Sector

The meeting also addressed LPG usage in the transport segment, particularly auto-rickshaws.

Officials noted that:

• Efforts are underway to meet LPG demand for auto fuel

• Vehicles capable of dual fuel use should prioritise petrol usage to ease pressure on LPG supplies

Strengthening Centre–State Coordination

The Secretary appreciated the active cooperation of states and UTs, emphasizing the importance of continued coordination to ensure seamless fuel distribution across the country.

States were urged to:

• Maintain real-time monitoring of supply and demand

• Strengthen field-level coordination with OMCs

• Ensure transparent communication with the public

Ensuring Energy Security at Scale

India consumes over 30 million tonnes of LPG annually, making it one of the largest LPG markets globally. With millions of households dependent on LPG under schemes like Ujjwala, maintaining supply stability is critical for both energy security and social welfare.

The government's proactive review mechanism reflects its focus on:

• Preventing supply disruptions

• Ensuring equitable access to essential fuels

• Maintaining price and supply stability

A Coordinated Response to Emerging Challenges

The meeting concluded with a strong call for continued vigilance, strict enforcement, and coordinated action, ensuring that fuel supplies remain stable and accessible across the country.

As global energy markets remain volatile, India's emphasis on robust monitoring and collaborative governance is aimed at safeguarding both consumers and the broader economy.