Preparedness in key sectors amid developments in West Asia
NATIONAL: The Government of India is actively ensuring preparedness in key sectors amid developments in West Asia, with notable initiatives in mining, energy supply, maritime operations and support for Indian nationals in the region, officials said Thursday.
In the mining sector, the Ministry of Mines is participating in the Empowered Group on Petroleum and Energy, established in March 2026, to address issues arising from the West Asia situation. The Ministry has solicited input from industry stakeholders to evaluate their needs and has set up nodal officers for better coordination.
Three key meetings were conducted with various stakeholders, involving primary and secondary aluminium producers, copper producers, and industry associations on different dates in April 2026. Subsequent to these engagements, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas assured the allocation of LPG for critical sectors, including metals, and offered broader support to resolve industry challenges.
In terms of energy supply, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is committed to ensuring continuous availability of petroleum products and LPG, particularly in light of disruptions related to the Strait of Hormuz. Citizens are advised against panic buying and should obtain information from official sources.
They are encouraged to use digital booking for LPG and consider alternative fuels such as PNG or electric cooktops while conserving energy.
The government has assured 100% supply to domestic LPG, PNG and CNG for transportation despite the geopolitical unrest. For commercial LPG, priority is given to hospitals, educational institutions, and sectors like pharma, steel and agriculture.
The distribution of 5 Kg FTL to migrant labor has also been increased. Measures to optimize supply and demand have been implemented, including enhanced refinery production and adjustments to booking intervals. Availability of alternative fuels like kerosene and coal is also encouraged to alleviate LPG demand pressures, with Coal India and Singareni Collieries directed to increase coal supply to states.
Lastly, states have been instructed to facilitate new PNG connections for both domestic and commercial consumers and to monitor the supply under the Essential Commodities Act and LPG Control Order to combat hoarding.