India Boosts LPG Output by 30%, Assures Adequate Fuel Supply Amid West Asia Tensions

New Delhi, March 2026 : The government on Friday said domestic production of cooking gas has increased by nearly 30 per cent and assured that the country has sufficient fuel supplies to meet demand despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

At an inter-ministerial briefing, Sujata Sharma said India’s refineries have ramped up production of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to ensure uninterrupted supply to consumers across the country.

Sharma, who serves as Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refinery) in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said LPG output from domestic refineries has risen by 30 per cent compared to levels recorded on March 5.

“The government is making continuous efforts to ensure that households and essential institutions receive uninterrupted supplies of cooking gas,” she said.

Priority for Essential Services

The government has prioritised LPG distribution for households and critical institutions to prevent any disruptions.

“LPG supplies are being prioritised for households, hospitals and educational institutions,” Sharma said.

She also noted that commercial LPG cylinders have been made available to state governments so they can distribute them according to priority in areas where additional supplies may be required.

Officials said the steps are part of a broader preparedness plan to maintain energy stability in case disruptions occur in global supply chains due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

Adequate Refining Capacity

The government also emphasised that India currently possesses sufficient refining capacity to meet domestic fuel demand.

According to Sharma, the country’s crude oil refining capacity stands at about 258 million metric tonnes per year, and refineries are operating at full capacity to ensure steady fuel production.

“This has made the country self-sufficient in the production of petrol and diesel, reducing the need for imports of these fuels,” she said.

Authorities also reassured consumers that there is no shortage of petrol or diesel anywhere in the country.

Nearly 100,000 fuel retail outlets across India continue to operate normally, and none have reported shortages.

“Petrol pumps are functioning normally and have adequate fuel stocks,” Sharma said.

She added that refineries maintain sufficient crude oil inventories, and these supplies are regularly replenished to ensure uninterrupted operations.

Stable Gas Supplies

The government further stated that supplies of piped natural gas (PNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) remain stable across the country.

Sharma said the supply of PNG to households and CNG for vehicles is continuing without disruption despite global uncertainties in energy markets.

At present, around 15 million households in India are connected to PNG networks.

In addition, approximately 6 million households located near existing gas pipeline infrastructure can easily obtain PNG connections if they choose to switch.

Sharma encouraged eligible households to adopt PNG connections, noting that wider use of piped gas could also help reduce pressure on LPG demand.

Officials said the government is closely monitoring the international situation and remains prepared to take further measures if necessary to ensure energy security and stable fuel availability across the country.