The Press Information Bureau today said the widely shared order, purportedly from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, falsely stated that petrol prices had been increased by Rs. 10 per litre and diesel by Rs. 12.50.
Oil marketing companies have issued 1,870 show-cause notices to LPG distributors as part of the ongoing action. Authorities say the measures are aimed at ensuring transparency and preventing malpractice in the supply chain.
The visit assumes significance as India seeks to stabilise its energy supplies and strengthen ties with key partners in West Asia amid evolving geopolitical conditions.
In a parallel relief measure, the government has allowed the sale of 5-kg FTL cylinders without requiring address proof. Beneficiaries can now obtain these cylinders from authorised distributors by presenting a valid identity card.
The Ministry explained that changes in a vessel’s destination during transit are common in the oil trade. Bills of Lading usually mention indicative discharge ports, and cargoes may change destination mid-voyage based on commercial and operational decisions.
Refineries across India are operating at full capacity or higher to meet domestic demand, while production of LPG within the country has increased by around 20 per cent.
According to the government, all domestic refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories. Domestic LPG production has increased, and petrol and diesel stocks remain sufficient.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said no LPG outlets were running dry and highlighted a behavioural shift among consumers, with around 7.5 lakh users transitioning to PNG.
India is likely to be among the most affected countries, given its heavy dependence on Qatari LNG. Data from India’s energy and commerce agencies shows that Qatar accounts for nearly 47% of India’s LNG imports.
Government added that crude oil availability remains stable and refineries across the country are operating at full capacity, ensuring an uninterrupted fuel supply.
