India steps up preparedness as US-Iran talks collapse; Supplies stable, says govt

New Delhi, April 12 (UNI) Even as the peace talks between the US and Iran failed with both sides blaming each other for rejecting the terms of agreement, the Government of India on Sunday said it is maintaining close watch on the evolving situation in West Asia, while ensuring stability across key sectors including energy supply, maritime operations and the safety of Indian nationals in the region.
In an official update, authorities stressed that there is no disruption in essential supplies, with LPG distribution continuing smoothly across the country. More than 52.3 lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered on April 11, and no “dry-outs” have been reported at any distributorships. The government also urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely on verified information, while encouraging the use of digital booking platforms and alternative fuels such as PNG and electric cooking solutions.
To curb hoarding and black marketing, enforcement agencies have intensified action nationwide. Over 2,700 raids were conducted on April 11, while Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have carried out surprise inspections, imposing penalties on 219 LPG distributors and suspending 56 distributorships so far.
The government highlighted that energy supply management remains a top priority, with measures such as enhanced refinery output, rationalised LPG booking cycles, and increased availability of alternative fuels including kerosene and coal. An additional 48,000 kilolitres of kerosene have been allocated to states to ease pressure on LPG demand, while Coal India and Singareni Collieries have been directed to ensure additional supply for small and medium consumers.
On the natural gas front, efforts to expand cleaner fuel access have gained momentum. Since March 2026, over 4.24 lakh PNG connections have been activated, while more than 4.66 lakh new consumers have registered. Authorities said domestic PNG and CNG transport sectors are being given priority supply, and incentives are being offered to encourage households and commercial establishments to shift away from LPG.
Despite volatility in global crude markets, the government said retail fuel prices remain stable, aided by a Rs 10 per litre cut in excise duty on petrol and diesel. At the same time, export levies on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) have been increased to ensure adequate domestic availability. Officials confirmed that all refineries are operating at high capacity with sufficient crude inventories.
In the maritime sector, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported that port operations across India remain normal with no congestion, while all Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers in the region are safe. A 24×7 Shipping Control Room continues to coordinate assistance, having handled over 6,000 calls and nearly 13,000 emails since activation. More than 2,084 Indian seafarers have been repatriated so far, including 75 in the last 24 hours.
The government also highlighted its continued focus on the safety and welfare of Indian nationals in West Asia, with Indian missions maintaining round-the-clock contact and assistance. Since February 28, nearly 8.97 lakh passengers have travelled from the region to India, with special travel arrangements being facilitated through alternative routes where airspace restrictions remain in place.
Flights are continuing from several countries in the Gulf region, though with operational constraints. Travel from countries such as Kuwait, Iran and Israel is being facilitated through third countries including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Reiterating its preparedness, the government said coordinated efforts with states and union Territories are ongoing, including daily monitoring, public advisories, and action against misinformation. Control rooms and district-level monitoring committees have been activated nationwide to ensure uninterrupted supply and prevent exploitation.
UNI