New Delhi, Mar 12: An inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia was held at the National Media Centre on Wednesday, during which the government advised states and union territories to take strict action against black marketing and hoarding of essential commodities.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting briefed the media on the government’s preparedness measures and ongoing steps to address the evolving regional situation. The briefing covered updates on energy supply, maritime safety, welfare of Indian nationals abroad, and public communication efforts.
Energy Supply and Fuel Availability
Crude Oil
An officer from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said India’s crude oil supply remains secure. Daily consumption is around 55 lakh barrels, and diversified procurement ensures volumes exceed what would normally arrive via the Strait of Hormuz. India currently imports crude from about 40 countries, with roughly 70% of imports coming from routes outside the Strait, compared with 55% previously. Two additional crude cargoes are on the way, while refineries are operating at high or above-capacity levels.
Natural Gas
India’s total natural gas consumption is about 189 MMSCMD, with 97.5 MMSCMD produced domestically. About 47.4 MMSCMD has been affected due to force majeure conditions, but procurement from alternative suppliers and routes is underway. LNG cargoes from new sources are on their way. A Natural Gas Control Order was issued on March 9, 2026, under the Essential Commodities Act to manage supplies and protect priority sectors. Domestic PNG and CNG for vehicles will receive 100% supply; industrial consumers will get 70–80% of previous averages, while refineries and petrochemical units will take a 35% reduction to prioritise essential sectors.
LPG
India imports about 60% of its LPG, of which 90% passes through the Strait of Hormuz, currently affected by regional tensions. On March 8, 2026, the government directed refineries to maximise LPG production by diverting propane, butane, and related streams. Domestic LPG production has increased by about 25% and is prioritised for households, with essential institutions like hospitals and schools receiving non-domestic supply. A three-member committee from IOCL, HPCL, and BPCL has been set up to ensure fair distribution to restaurants, hotels, and commercial users.
The domestic LPG cylinder price in Delhi is ₹913 (after a recent ₹60 increase), while PMUY beneficiaries continue to pay ₹613 per cylinder. Despite a 41% rise in the Saudi Contract Price since July 2023, the PMUY price has fallen by 32% due to government support. The government has approved ₹30,000 crore in compensation for oil marketing companies. Measures like the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) system and increasing the minimum booking gap from 21 to 25 days are being implemented to prevent hoarding and ensure smooth deliveries.
Maritime Safety and Shipping Operations
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported that 28 Indian-flagged vessels are operating in the Persian Gulf, with 677 seafarers west of the Strait of Hormuz and 101 east. Their safety is being actively monitored through a 24-hour control room. Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers have been instructed to follow enhanced security measures, including crew reporting protocols. Port operations across India remain stable, ensuring continuity of EXIM trade. The government continues to monitor the situation closely, focusing on the safety of Indian seafarers and maritime trade.
Safety of Indian Nationals in the Region
The Ministry of External Affairs updated on the welfare of Indian nationals, particularly the 1 crore-strong diaspora in GCC countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in contact with leaders across the Gulf and West Asia, while the External Affairs Minister remains in regular communication with counterparts, including Iran. Indian missions have issued advisories, assisted stranded nationals with flights, and relocated students and pilgrims to safer areas. About 9,000 Indians are currently in Iran, with some injured nationals receiving treatment.
Public Communication and Monitoring of Essential Supplies
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated that the Union Home Secretary has advised all states and UTs to take strict action against hoarding and ensure uninterrupted availability of essential commodities. State-level spokespersons have been nominated to provide verified updates through official channels. Local administrations, including District Collectors, Police Commissioners, and municipal authorities, are being used as credible communication channels to engage with the public.
The briefing reaffirmed that the government is closely monitoring the West Asia situation, ensuring energy security, safeguarding Indian nationals, maintaining maritime safety, and keeping essential supplies uninterrupted. Timely updates and measures will continue to protect India’s interests during the evolving regional development . ( Agencies)
