New Delhi, April 11,
Public sector oil marketing companies have significantly intensified efforts to promote the adoption of 5 kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders across the country. Over the past eight days, nearly 2,900 awareness camps have been conducted, resulting in the sale of more than 29,000 cylinders.
The average daily sales of 5 kg FTL cylinders stood at around 77,000 in February 2026. This figure witnessed a sharp rise, with approximately 1 lakh cylinders sold nationwide on April 10, 2026, indicating growing acceptance among consumers.
Since March 23, 2026, more than 12 lakh 5 kg FTL cylinders have been sold, particularly benefiting students and migrant workers, who form a key segment of socio-economically sensitive groups.
A three-member committee comprising Executive Directors from Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited is actively coordinating with state authorities and industry stakeholders to streamline commercial LPG distribution.
In terms of overall supply, about 1,13,233 metric tonnes of commercial LPG equivalent to nearly 60.19 lakh 19-kg cylinders have been sold since March 14, 2026. On April 10 alone, sales reached 7,140 metric tonnes, translating to over 3.76 lakh 19 kg cylinders.
PNG and Natural Gas Supply Initiatives
The government has ensured 100% supply of PNG for domestic use and CNG for transport, prioritizing essential consumers. Gas allocation to fertilizer plants has been increased by 5%, effective April 9, 2026, aiming to reach approximately 95% of their six-month average consumption, based on available reserves and incoming LNG cargo.
To promote cleaner energy, a model policy for Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) has been developed. This framework is designed to help states build investor-friendly ecosystems and will grant priority in future commercial LPG allocations to states adopting the policy.
In a move to encourage piped gas usage, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has introduced subsidies for domestic PNG consumers under the “Andhra Pradesh PNG Subsidy Scheme” via a letter dated April 10, 2026.
Since March 2026, around 4.15 lakh PNG connections have been activated, while an additional 4.55 lakh consumers have registered for new connections. Notably, over 26,000 customers have voluntarily surrendered their LPG connections through the MYPNGD.in portal.
Shipping, Logistics, and Emergency Response
The 24×7 shipping control room has handled 5,973 phone calls and over 12,675 emails since its inception, including 128 calls and 319 emails in the last 24 hours alone.
Through the Directorate General of Shipping, the government has facilitated the safe return of over 2,009 Indian seafarers, including 81 individuals evacuated in the past 24 hours from various locations in the Gulf region.
Operations across Indian ports remain smooth, with no reports of congestion.
Safety of Indians in Conflict Zones
The government continues to closely monitor developments in the Gulf and West Asia regions. Indian embassies and missions are maintaining constant communication with the Indian diaspora, ensuring their safety and well-being.
The Ministry of External Affairs is coordinating closely with state governments and Union Territories to enhance information sharing and response mechanisms. 24×7 helplines remain operational, providing assistance and timely updates on travel advisories, flight operations, and consular services.
Indian missions are also actively engaging with community organizations, business groups, and companies in the region. Since February 28, 2026, approximately 8.71 lakh passengers have returned to India from these regions, as air travel continues from countries with open airspace.
