The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has announced a directive to all state governments and union territories for the increased supply of 5kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders intended for migrant labourers. This decision, issued on April 7, 2025, follows an assessment revealing a rise in average daily supply that surpassed the previous limit set in a communication dated March 21, 2025.

In correspondence to Chief Secretaries across states, Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Ministry, highlighted that these cylinders will specifically cater to migrant workers, facilitated by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). The initiative aims to improve access to cooking fuel for these individuals during peak demand periods.

State Governments, along with their Food and Civil Supplies Departments, will be responsible for the effective distribution of these additional cylinders, ensuring they reach the intended beneficiaries promptly.

No LPG Shortage Amidst Rising Demand

Amidst growing concerns regarding the recent crisis in West Asia, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Ministry, addressed the situation, asserting that there is no shortage of LPG in India. She confirmed that reports of “dryouts” at petrol pumps have been unfounded, with operations across the country remaining normal.

On the previous day, approximately 6,500 tonnes of commercial LPG was sold to cater to ongoing demands. Sharma elaborated during an inter-ministerial briefing, stating that oil marketing companies have been proactive, hosting 1,300 awareness camps aimed at informing consumers about the availability of 5kg cylinders. In these campaigns, a total of 10,005 cylinders have been sold.

The reassurance from the Ministry has aimed to alleviate public concerns over potential shortages, further supported by the information that all petrol pumps are conducting operations smoothly.

Strategic Measures for LPG Supply Management

A recent high-level meeting led by Neeraj Mittal focused on reinforcing strategies to ensure adequate LPG supply across the nation. This involved instructing states to prioritise LPG distribution for domestic and essential requirements while maintaining vigilance against hoarding and misinformation.

Officials from various states have indicated that there are currently no disruptions in LPG supply affecting migrant populations, asserting a stable supply situation. Moreover, states have been encouraged to consider targeted distribution of 5kg FTL LPG cylinders according to local needs in collaboration with OMCs.

According to information from the Ministry, the overall LPG supply remains under control, with several indicators reflecting stable distribution trends. Since March 23, 2025, about 6.75 lakh of the 5kg FTL cylinders have been sold nationwide, illustrating a robust supply network capability.

Additionally, public sector oil marketing companies have conducted around 550 awareness camps for the distribution of 5kg FTL cylinders, yielding sales of over 6,700 cylinders. Online bookings for LPG have reached approximately 97 per cent across the industry, with Delivery Authentication Code-based deliveries increasing to around 90 per cent, thereby enhancing the tracking of cylinder distribution.

Domestic LPG deliveries remain steady, with more than 18 crore cylinders delivered to households since March 1, 2025. Officials have assured the public that the situation is stable and have advised against believing rumors regarding LPG shortages.

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