India Diversifies LPG Imports Amid Middle East Tensions, Supply Remains Stable

New Delhi, March 2026 : Amid rising concerns over a possible LPG shortage due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the government on Thursday assured that supply across the country remains stable, with no reports of disruption at the consumer level.

Addressing a daily briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said India has taken proactive steps to diversify its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) procurement. The country is now sourcing LPG from the United States and other regions to offset any supply chain disruptions caused by the conflict in West Asia.

She noted that despite the challenging global situation, there has been no “dry-out” reported at any LPG distributorship. Online booking of cylinders has risen significantly, touching 94 per cent, while around 83 per cent of refill deliveries are being completed through delivery authentication systems.

Sharma added that panic buying has declined in recent days, with around 57 lakh refill bookings recorded on Wednesday. “LPG cylinder delivery is proceeding normally,” she said, reassuring consumers.

Highlighting the broader energy scenario, she said that crude oil supplies and refinery operations in India remain unaffected. Additionally, domestic supply of piped natural gas (PNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) continues at full capacity. Consumers have been encouraged to shift from LPG to PNG where available, with over 5,600 users making the transition in the past three days.

The official pointed out that global developments, particularly in the Middle East, inevitably impact India due to its energy dependence. However, the country has reduced its reliance on Gulf nations, with nearly 70 per cent of oil imports now coming from alternative sources such as the US, Russia, and African countries like Nigeria.

The situation has been further complicated by concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas supplies pass. Any disruption in this region has the potential to affect global energy markets.

To curb black marketing and hoarding, the Centre has directed all state governments to take strict action. Sharma revealed that around 6,000 raids were conducted across the country on Wednesday. States like Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh reported significant seizures of illegally stored LPG cylinders.

Control rooms have been established in 31 states and Union Territories, while district-level monitoring committees are operational in 25 regions to ensure smooth supply and prevent malpractice.

Meanwhile, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, confirmed that Indian vessels and seafarers remain safe. He said 22 Indian-flagged ships are currently operating west of the Strait of Hormuz, and authorities are closely monitoring the evolving situation.

The government reiterated that it remains vigilant and committed to ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies across the country.