NewsFlash Daily™
13 March 
Facing a nationwide LPG supply crunch triggered by Middle East tensions, the Centre has allowed states to distribute kerosene and temporarily divert commercial cylinders for household cooking needs
New Delhi: In a significant emergency response to the nationwide shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders, the Government of India has permitted state administrations to distribute kerosene as an alternative cooking fuel, aiming to prevent disruptions to household cooking across the country.
Kerosene and Commercial Cylinders as Alternatives
Officials said the Centre has given the green signal for the use of kerosene for cooking purposes in areas affected by LPG supply disruptions.
In addition, the government has also decided to release commercial LPG cylinders for temporary domestic use to bridge the gap in supply.
The Centre clarified that state governments will decide which sectors or households should receive these commercial cylinders on priority, based on local demand and availability.
Reducing Dependence on Hormuz Route
India imports nearly 60% of its total LPG requirement, and about 90% of these imports traditionally arrive through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy shipping route connecting Gulf producers with international markets.
However, due to the current global situation and supply disruptions, India is now moving to reduce its dependence on this route and on Gulf countries for LPG supplies.
Expanding LPG Imports from Other Nations
To address the crisis, India is working to secure LPG supplies from alternative sources that do not rely on the Hormuz shipping route.
The government is reportedly negotiating supply agreements with countries such as the United States, Russia, and Algeria.
Previously, India relied on about 27 countries for crude oil and LPG imports, but the government has now expanded its sourcing network to nearly 40 countries.
Officials say the strategy is aimed at strengthening India’s long-term energy security and preventing similar shortages in the future.
