‘LPG cylinder price in India lower than neighbouring countries’:Rates would be much higher without intervention, adds govt

In a press briefing on Wednesday, 18 March, 2026, the Central Government said that India has a sufficient inventory of crude, ATF and LNG. The nation has imported more crude during the wartimes than it generally secures through the war-hit Straif of Hormuz during normal circumstances. While, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum Natural Gas, said the nation added 1.20 lakh new gas connections in last one week. Measures taken by govt to secure energy supply: 1. 70% of crude imports come apart from Hormuz Strait: According to Sujata, daily crude consumption is 55 lakh barrels. Government has taken various steps to secure energy supplies. Currently, India imports crude from 40 countries worldwide. She added that 70% of crude imports come through routes other than the Hormuz Strait. This was 55% earlier. 2 more crude tankers to reach India soon: She further said that two more tankers carrying crude oil are en route to India. These will reach soon. 3. Refiners operating at full capacity: The government spokesperson also said that the refineries in India are operational at full capacity to ensure energy availability in the nation. 4. Domestic LPG production rises by 25% India imports 60% of total LPG requirements. But 90% of total LPG imports come through the Hormuz Strait. However, domestic LPG production has increased by 25%. 5. Govt absorbs a significant portion of LPG price hike with itself Sujata added that the government absorbed a significant portion of LPG price hike itself to protect customers. Misinformation leads to panic booking hoarding The government spokesperson said that misinformation regarding LPG shortage has led to panic booking hoarding in the country.