New Delhi: With tensions in West Asia refusing to die down and worries about fuel shortages spreading across India, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stepped in to calm the nerves of common citizens.
In a meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Group (IGoM) on Thursday, he made it clear: the government is watching every development round-the-clock and will not let the crisis hit ordinary households hard.
The focus was sharp and practical — ensuring LPG cylinders reach every kitchen without a break. Refineries have already ramped up production to meet rising demand. Distributors report no real shortage, yet panic buying and some hoarding have created temporary hiccups in a few places. The response? Strict raids across states and union territories against black-marketers, with teams keeping a close eye on antisocial elements spreading fake news and morphed images on social media.
To protect the most vulnerable, free 5-kg LPG cylinders are being supplied to migrant workers and low-consumption families — over 4.3 lakh such cylinders have already been sold since March 23. Commercial LPG supply is being maintained at more than 80 per cent of pre-crisis levels, while daily deliveries have been increased to handle the sudden rush. The government is also pushing piped natural gas (PNG) as a steady alternative for commercial users.
On the broader economic front, full customs duty exemption has been given on 40 petrochemical products till June 30, 2026. Special one-time relief for SEZ units allows them to sell in the domestic market at concessional rates. Most importantly, the monthly price hike of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) for domestic flights has been capped at 25 per cent from April 1, so airfares do not shoot up suddenly.
Rajnath appreciated these steps, especially the ATF cap, saying the priority remains safeguarding people from any sudden burden. In simple words, the message from the meeting was loud: India is prepared, supply chains are being strengthened, and no one will be left struggling for their daily cylinder or essential goods.