India allocates additional PDS kerosene to States and UTs for 60 days amid LPG supply disruptions due to the West Asia conflict, ensuring households have a reliable backup for cooking and lighting
New Delhi: The ongoing conflict in West Asia has disturbed global energy supplies. It has especially affected India’s LPG imports, which depend a lot on routes through the Strait of Hormuz. Because of this situation, the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has taken a short-term step to make sure people still have fuel for cooking and lighting.
The Emergency Decision: Temporary Kerosene Allocation
On March 29, 2026, the Central Government announced a special decision to supply Public Distribution System Superior Kerosene Oil (PDS SKO) to all States and Union Territories. This also includes the 21 States and UTs that had earlier stopped using PDS kerosene after moving to cleaner fuels. An extra 48,000 KL of kerosene has been provided in addition to the normal quarterly supply.
60-Day Period: Short-Term Help for People
This arrangement will be valid for 60 days or until further notice. States and UTs have been told to identify the right beneficiaries and decide where the kerosene will be distributed in each district. So far, 17 States/UTs have already issued orders for distribution. Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh have said they do not need the extra kerosene.
To make distribution faster and easier, the government has allowed public sector Oil Marketing Companies to store and supply kerosene through selected petrol pumps — up to two in each district. Each petrol pump can store up to 5,000 litres.
How It Will Be Implemented and Monitored
State and UT governments will distribute the kerosene through the existing PDS system and selected petrol pumps. The government intends it only for household cooking and lighting. The Centre has empowered States to take strict action against hoarding or misuse under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
Part of a Bigger Energy Plan
This step is part of the government’s larger plan to handle the global energy situation. The government has increased domestic LPG production and arranged extra LPG shipments from other sources. It has also raised the supply of commercial LPG to 70% of pre-crisis levels.
India also has enough stock of crude oil, petrol, and diesel. The government has asked people not to panic or spread rumours and has told Chief Secretaries to keep giving regular updates to the public.
What This Means for People
For many households, especially in rural and semi-urban areas that had stopped using kerosene, this 60-day plan gives a reliable backup fuel at a time when LPG supply is under pressure. By using petrol pumps for distribution, the government has ensured quicker delivery without needing new infrastructure. After 60 days, the situation will be reviewed based on global developments.
Overall, this decision shows that while the government continues to promote cleaner fuels, it is also taking quick and practical steps to make sure no household faces a shortage of basic cooking fuel during this uncertain time.
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