From petrol-diesel to LPG cylinder, what is the latest situation amid the Middle East war; Government gave update

Inter-Ministerial Briefing on West Asia: Amidst the ongoing geopolitical tension in West Asia, the Indian government has clarified that there is no shortage of fuel in the country and the work of evacuating Indians from the affected areas is going on a war footing. Senior officials from the ministries of petroleum, foreign affairs and shipping shared a detailed update on the country’s energy security and safety of citizens in a joint press conference.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has assured the countrymen that all the refineries are working at high capacity and adequate stock of petrol and diesel is available.

Sharp increase in LPG production

Refineries have increased LPG production to meet domestic demand. The government has increased the allocation of commercial LPG to states to 50%, with priority being given to migrant workers and community kitchens. More than 2,700 raids were conducted across the country to stop hoarding and around 2,000 cylinders were seized. More than 650 FIRs have been registered so far. The government has issued the ‘Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026’ has notified, which will provide a time-bound framework for pipeline expansion. Yesterday alone, 9,046 new PNG connections were given in 110 areas.

Security and repatriation of citizens

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, since February 28, about 4,26,000 Indians have returned home safely from West Asia. A total of 2,149 flights have been operated from the region to India so far. Indians stranded in Iran are being evacuated via Armenia and Azerbaijan, while citizens present in Israel are being brought to India via Jordan. Due to closure of the airspace of Kuwait and Bahrain, Indians are being brought back to their country via Saudi Arabia. The dedicated control room of the Ministry of External Affairs and the respective embassies are operational round the clock, providing visa facilities and logistics support.

Maritime Security and Port Operations

The Shipping Ministry has confirmed that all 540 Indian sailors present in the Persian Gulf are safe. The Director General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has so far ensured the safe return of more than 635 seafarers. The cargo movement at major ports of India (like JNPA, Kandla, Mundra) is smooth and there is no congestion anywhere. Mundra Port has provided 15 days free storage for export containers and huge rebate of up to 80% in reefer charges so that trade is not affected.

Also read: ‘There is no shortage of petrol and diesel in the country’, big update from the government amid Iran war; Know the important things of the all-party meeting

Prime Minister’s discussion with global leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi US President Donald Trump And spoke on phone with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. During the discussion, PM Modi stressed the importance of the Strait of Hormuz remaining open and secure, which is extremely important for global energy security. The government has appealed to the citizens not to pay attention to the rumors circulating on social media and use fuel judiciously.