No Hike in Regular Fuel Prices, Says Centre Amid West Asia Crisis; Crackdown on Black Marketing Intensifies

New Delhi: The Central Government has clarified that there has been no increase in the prices of regular petrol and diesel, even as tensions in West Asia continue to impact global energy markets. However, a marginal hike of ₹2–₹3 per litre has been observed in premium petrol, which accounts for only 3–4% of total fuel consumption.

The government has stepped up efforts to ensure energy security, civil preparedness, and strict action against hoarding and black marketing. According to Petroleum Ministry Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma, the price rise is limited to premium fuel and will not affect the common public.

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In a major move to stabilize supply, LPG production has been increased by 40%, with refineries operating at full capacity. Despite this, officials acknowledged that pressure on supply persists due to India’s dependence on imports. The government is actively sourcing LPG and LNG from multiple global suppliers to meet domestic demand.

To curb illegal activities, authorities conducted over 4,500 raids across the country on March 19, seizing nearly 4,000 LPG cylinders. States have been directed to maintain strict vigilance. Panic booking has also declined significantly—from 8.9 million bookings on March 13 to around 5.5 million now—while online bookings have surged to 93%.

The government has urged citizens to remain calm and avoid panic buying or falling prey to misinformation.

To reduce dependence on LPG, the government is accelerating the rollout of PNG (Piped Natural Gas) connections. Recently, 13,700 new PNG connections were provided, and around 7,300 consumers have switched from LPG to PNG, with priority given to commercial sectors such as hotels, restaurants, and hospitals.

On the international front, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that nearly 300,000 Indians have returned from West Asia since February 28. Tragically, six Indian nationals have lost their lives, and one remains missing.

Meanwhile, the Shipping Ministry assured that 22 Indian vessels near the Strait of Hormuz are safe, with no congestion reported at ports. In the last 24 hours, 25 Indian sailors have returned home safely.

The government is also promoting alternative fuels, increasing supply of kerosene and coal to states, and encouraging the adoption of PNG and electricity-based solutions to ease pressure on conventional fuel systems.

Overall, the Centre has emphasized that ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply and maintaining price stability remain its top priorities amid the ongoing global crisis.

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