Govt Latest Update on LPG Gas: Finally, the government has given the biggest information till date on the shortage of gas, petrol and diesel, and explained the current situation.

Due to Growing tensions in West Asia and amid concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian government has provided significant information. The government has stated that the country’s energy supply is currently secure. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), stated that India’s daily crude oil consumption is approximately 5.5 million barrels. The government has clearly stated that the country’s supply remains secure.

She explained that approximately 70% of India’s total crude oil imports come from sources other than the Strait of Hormuz. Furthermore, oil marketing companies (OMCs) have secured crude oil supplies from various countries, thereby maintaining supply diversity.

Gas and LNG supply situation -The country’s total daily natural gas consumption is approximately 189 mmscmd, of which 97 mmscmd comes from domestic production. However, current conditions have affected approximately 47 mmscmd of gas consumption. The government stated that two LNG cargoes are currently on their way to India, and two more are on their way, which means that gas supply conditions are expected to improve soon.

Government monitoring on LPG supply and prices – India imports approximately 60% of its LPG needs, of which approximately 90% comes through the Strait of Hormuz. However, the government has increased domestic LPG production by 25% and is providing it on a priority basis to households, hospitals, and educational institutions. The government has also established a special panel to monitor LPG distribution, ensuring transparent supply

The government stated that it is bearing a significant portion of the LPG price increase. Without government intervention, LPG prices could have risen even further. According to reports, the Saudi CP (Contract Price) has increased by approximately 41% since July 2023, yet LPG prices in India remain lower than in many countries.

Appeal to avoid hoarding and panic booking –

The government stated that there have been reports of panic booking and hoarding of LPG cylinders in some areas. Officials said there is no need for the public to panic, as the normal delivery time for cylinders is 2.5 days, and efforts are being made to maintain this. Distributors are also rapidly clearing there backlogs.

Safety of Indian Ships and Seafarers –

Foreign Ministry official Rajesh Kumar Sinha stated that ship movements in the region are being monitored in coordination with Indian embassies. All Indian-flagged ships have been instructed to take additional security measures. He added that currently, 28 Indian-flagged ships are operating, 24 of which are in the Strait of Hormuz. A total of 677 Indian sailors are aboard these ships.

Security of Indians in Gulf countries –

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that approximately 10 million Indian expatriates live in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Their safety is the government’s top priority. He added that the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister have spoken to the leaders of several Gulf and West Asian countries on this issue. The Ministry of External Affairs has also set up a control room for Indian citizens, which has received 75 phone calls and 11 emails so far.The government stated that two Indian nationals were killed in the area and one is still missing. Some injured Indians are receiving treatment, including one in Israel, and the Indian Consulate in Dubai is in contact with the injured Indian. Approximately 9,000 Indian nationals, including a large number of students, live in Iran.

Keep an eye on the situation in the Gulf region

Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Film), Ministry of External Affairs, said that Indian missions are in constant touch with local governments and real-time information is being provided to the Indian community. He said Kuwait and Bahrain have closed their airspace, while Kuwait has temporarily diverted its air services to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia’s airspace remains open, while the United Arab Emirates has operated several non-scheduled flights to evacuate stranded people.

Instructions given to states also 

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has directed states to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG. States have also been asked to appoint spokespersons to provide regular updates to local media and provide reliable information to the public.