New Delhi

The government has increased the minimum booking interval for domestic LPG cylinders from 21 days to 25 days to prevent hoarding and black marketing, according to official sources on Monday.

Sources said the decision was taken after authorities noticed irregular booking patterns. “There were instances where consumers who earlier booked LPG cylinders after around 55 days started placing orders within 15 days,” they said.

To ensure steady availability, the government has directed refineries to increase production of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and prioritise supply for domestic consumers over commercial users.

“Domestic consumers will always remain the priority,” sources said, adding that India is also exploring additional international suppliers to secure long-term LPG supplies.

Several countries, including Algeria, Australia, Canada and Norway, have expressed interest in supplying LPG to India, they added.

Officials also indicated that prices of petrol and diesel are unlikely to increase unless global crude oil prices cross the USD 130 per barrel mark. Current projections suggest crude may hover around USD 100 per barrel.

Sources further reassured consumers that there is adequate fuel availability across the country and no shortage of petrol or diesel at retail outlets.

The government has also accelerated efforts to source crude oil through routes that bypass the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

Officials added that India currently has sufficient reserves of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), noting that the country is not only self-sufficient but also an exporter of the aviation fuel.

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According to sources, India remains relatively well-positioned to manage the current global energy volatility compared to many other countries.