The Government of India has outlined a series of measures to maintain fuel availability, protect maritime operations and support citizens in West Asia amid evolving regional tensions. According to an official update from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, authorities are managing energy supply chains, expanding access to alternative fuels and coordinating with states to prevent hoarding and misinformation. Details of the government’s response were published in an official government update on 4 April 2026.
The measures follow disruptions linked to the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy shipments. Indian authorities report that domestic fuel stocks remain adequate and refineries are operating at full capacity. The government has also emphasised public communication, urging citizens to avoid panic buying of petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Maintaining Domestic Fuel Availability
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas stated that household LPG and piped natural gas (PNG) supply remain a priority, alongside fuel needs for hospitals and educational institutions. Several demand-management steps have been introduced, including increasing booking intervals for LPG cylinders and encouraging the use of alternative fuels such as PNG, induction cooktops and electric appliances.
Authorities also expanded domestic production of LPG from refineries to help stabilise supply. Online LPG bookings have increased significantly, with deliveries continuing across the country. Around 5.1 million household LPG cylinders were delivered in a single day during the reporting period.
To prevent irregularities in distribution, enforcement actions have been intensified. More than 3,700 inspections were conducted in one day across states and union territories to curb hoarding and black marketing. Oil marketing companies have also issued over 1,000 show-cause notices to LPG distributors, with 27 distributors suspended so far.
Targeted Distribution of Small LPG Cylinders
The government is promoting the use of 5 kilogram Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders to improve access for mobile populations and short-term users. These cylinders can be purchased from LPG distributors by presenting any valid identity document, without requiring proof of address.
More than 71,000 of these cylinders were sold in a single day, bringing the total distributed since 23 March 2026 to approximately 570,000. Officials say this measure helps ensure supply for migrant workers and others who may not have permanent residential documentation.
Expanding Natural Gas Infrastructure
The government is also accelerating expansion of the city gas distribution (CGD) network to support a longer-term shift towards piped natural gas. Since March 2026, more than 350,000 new PNG connections have begun receiving gas supply, while over 380,000 additional consumers have registered for new connections.
Regulatory changes aim to streamline pipeline approvals and remove land access delays. A new order under the Essential Commodities Act establishes a time-bound framework for building and expanding natural gas pipelines nationwide. Authorities expect the measure to strengthen energy security while supporting cleaner fuel adoption.
Energy technology and safety innovations are also part of India’s broader transition. Recent developments such as a smart sensor designed to detect hydrogen and toxic gases highlight efforts to improve monitoring and safety across evolving fuel systems.
From 6 April 2026, natural gas supply to fertiliser plants will increase to around 90% of their average consumption over the previous six months. Industrial and commercial consumers connected to the gas grid will also receive an additional 10% supply increase.
Fuel Pricing and Export Controls
Global oil price volatility linked to the regional crisis has prompted temporary fiscal measures. To reduce the impact on consumers, the government has lowered excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre. At the same time, export duties have been imposed on diesel and aviation turbine fuel to ensure sufficient domestic availability.
Officials stressed that retail fuel prices remain unchanged and that petrol pumps across the country continue to operate normally.
Maritime Operations and Seafarer Safety
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported that maritime operations remain stable despite regional tensions. Indian ports are functioning normally with no congestion reported.
An LPG vessel, Green Sanvi, recently crossed the Strait of Hormuz carrying 46,650 metric tonnes of cargo and a crew of 25 seafarers. Authorities also confirmed that 17 Indian-flagged ships with 460 Indian seafarers remain in the western Persian Gulf region, with their safety being monitored in coordination with ship owners and diplomatic missions.
The Directorate General of Shipping has been operating a 24-hour control room to support seafarers and coordinate assistance. More than 1,320 Indian sailors have been helped to return home so far.
Support for Indian Citizens in West Asia
The Ministry of External Affairs said Indian embassies across the region remain in constant contact with local authorities and the Indian community. Missions are providing visa support, travel guidance and logistical assistance where necessary, while monitoring the safety of students and workers.
Since 28 February, around 675,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India as flight operations gradually stabilise. Dedicated embassy helplines and a special control room in New Delhi continue to operate around the clock.
Officials say the response reflects a broader government focus on strengthening national resilience and infrastructure, an approach also visible in wider economic initiatives such as India’s technology-focused budget strategy, which prioritises investment in critical systems and strategic sectors.
The government has urged citizens to rely on official information channels and to avoid spreading rumours, while authorities continue to monitor developments and adjust supply management measures as required.
