Friday, March 27, 2026: New Delhi: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Friday firmly dismissed reports of fuel shortages, assuring that India’s supply of petrol, diesel, and LPG remains fully secure and under control across the country.
In an official statement, the Ministry said all fuel stations are operational, with more than 1 lakh retail outlets dispensing petrol and diesel without interruption. It emphasized that no rationing has been ordered anywhere, and there is no shortage of fuel supplies.
Calling India an “oasis of energy security,” the government highlighted that the country is the world’s fourth-largest refiner and fifth-largest exporter of petroleum products, supplying fuel to over 150 nations. This strong refining and export capacity ensures that domestic availability remains stable even during global disruptions.
No Fuel Shortage Despite Global Concerns Says Indian Government
The clarification comes amid global energy uncertainties, particularly around disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry stated that India continues to source crude oil from over 41 suppliers worldwide, with increased imports from alternative regions fully compensating for any disruptions.
“All refineries are operating at over 100% capacity, and crude supplies for the next 60 days have already been secured,” the statement said, adding that there is no supply gap whatsoever.
Adequate Reserves, No Need for Panic
Refuting claims of limited reserves, the government clarified that India currently has around 60 days of stock cover, against a total reserve capacity of 74 days. This includes crude oil, refined products, and strategic reserves stored in underground caverns.
Officials stressed that “nearly two months of steady supply is available for every citizen,” dismissing claims of depleted reserves as “misleading and baseless.”
LPG Supply Strengthened
The Ministry also assured that there is no shortage of LPG cylinders. Domestic production has been ramped up by 40%, now meeting over 60% of daily demand. Imports have reduced significantly, with only 30 TMT required per day, while 800 TMT of LPG cargoes are already on the way.
Oil companies are currently delivering over 50 lakh cylinders daily, with demand stabilizing after a temporary spike caused by panic buying.
PNG Expansion Not Linked to Crisis
Addressing speculation around Piped Natural Gas (PNG), the Ministry clarified that its expansion is part of a long-term clean energy strategy, not a response to any LPG shortage. PNG coverage has expanded significantly in recent years, with connections rising from 25 lakh to over 1.5 crore households.
Government Warns Against Misinformation
The Ministry expressed serious concern over the spread of misleading videos and false claims on social media, which it said were creating unnecessary panic. Some posts falsely suggested fuel rationing or emergency measures by misrepresenting routine government orders.
It urged citizens to rely only on official communications and warned that spreading misinformation about essential commodities is a punishable offence.
“The government will take strict action against those deliberately spreading panic,” the statement added.
