Last Updated:
Officials maintained that port operations across India are functioning normally, with no congestion reported, helping prevent bottlenecks at a time of heightened global uncertainty
In a targeted measure for vulnerable groups, over 3.2 lakh 5kg free trade LPG cylinders have been sold to migrant labourers since March 23. (PTI)
As tensions in the Middle East push global energy markets into volatility, India is moving to project stability at home while stepping up contingency measures abroad. With oil and gas prices rising amid the ongoing Iran-linked conflict, the government is focusing on supply continuity, domestic distribution, and citizen safety.
A key signal of energy stability came with the arrival of LPG tanks BW TYR in Mumbai on Tuesday, underscoring that supply chains remain intact despite disruptions in critical shipping routes near the Gulf. Officials have maintained that port operations across India are functioning normally, with no congestion reported, helping prevent bottlenecks at a time of heightened global uncertainty.
On the domestic front, the government has accelerated efforts to expand gas access and cushion consumers. City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities have been directed to fast-track domestic PNG connections, with National PNG Drive 2.0 now extended till June 30 this year. The push appears to be yielding results: more than 3.1 lakh connections were gasified in March alone, with over 2.7 lakh new connections currently being added and activated.
ALSO READ | Is Iran War Impacting India’s Economy? Here’s What CEA V Anantha Nageswaran Says
Cooking fuel availability, often a sensitive indicator during crises, has also remained steady. Since March 1, more than 50 lakh domestic LPG cylinders have been delivered daily on average. In a targeted measure for vulnerable groups, over 3.2 lakh 5kg free trade LPG cylinders have been sold to migrant labourers since March 23, including more than 63,000 in a single day.
While ensuring energy security at home, India is simultaneously managing a large-scale evacuation and support operation for its citizens in the conflict-affected region. More than 5.72 lakh passengers have returned to India since February 28, as part of ongoing facilitation efforts. Diplomatic missions and posts are operating round the clock, with 24×7 helplines active across the region.
In the maritime sector, the government has facilitated the safe repatriation of over 959 Indian seafarers so far, including nine in the last 24 hours, reflecting continued risks to shipping lanes but also active intervention.
ALSO READ | Russia Bans Gasoline (Petrol) Exports From April 1 Amid Iran War; Should India Worry?
Globally, the conflict has triggered fears of supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for oil shipments, leading to upward pressure on crude prices and insurance costs for tankers. Several countries are reviewing strategic reserves and diversifying sourcing, while energy-importing nations like India are closely monitoring price movements and logistics risks.
Despite these headwinds, India’s approach reflects a dual-track strategy: maintaining robust domestic energy distribution while executing one of the largest ongoing citizen support operations abroad. The emphasis, officials suggest, is on preparedness rather than panic, ensuring that even as global markets remain volatile, essential supplies and services within the country remain uninterrupted.
April 01, 2026, 09:20 IST
Read More
Source link
[ad_3]
