New Delhi: As the conflict in West Asia enters its 13th day with the unprecedented closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the Government of India has launched a massive inter-ministerial coordination effort to secure energy supplies and protect Indian nationals.

In a high-level briefing on Thursday, senior officials confirmed that while the global situation remains challenging, India’s energy security is being maintained through a 28% surge in domestic LPG production and a strategic shift in crude oil sourcing.

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Energy security: 50 lakh cylinders daily

Despite 90% of India’s LPG imports typically passing through the now-closed Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas assured the public that there is no shortage.
 

  • Production surge: Under a new 'LPG Control Order' issued on March 9, refineries have been directed to maximise yields, resulting in a 28% increase in domestic production over the last five days.
  • Supply chain: Over 50 lakh cylinders are being delivered daily through a network of 25,000 distributors.
  • Commercial allocation: To prevent hoarding, 20% of the average monthly requirement for commercial LPG is being allocated immediately. A three-member committee is prioritising supplies for hospitals and schools.
  • Alternative fuels: The government has cleared the use of kerosene, coal and biomass for the hospitality sector for one month to free up LPG for domestic households.

Maritime safety and seafarers

The Ministry of Ports and Shipping is actively monitoring 28 Indian-flagged vessels currently in the Persian Gulf.

Casualties reported: Officials confirmed that three Indian seafarers have died and one remains missing following attacks on foreign-flagged merchant ships.

Port priority: All major Indian ports have been ordered to provide "priority berthing" for LPG vessels to ensure fuel reaches the mainland without delay.

Indian nationals abroad

The Ministry of External Affairs is in constant contact with the Indian community in GCC countries and Iran.

Repatriation: Missions are facilitating commercial flight options and assisting those wishing to return via land borders through Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Assistance: Consulates are working to repatriate the mortal remains of the deceased and are providing medical aid to over two dozen Indians injured in the conflict.

A call against panic

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued a stern appeal to citizens and the media:

  • No panic booking: Citizens are urged to avoid bulk-booking cylinders, as current stocks are adequate.
  • Rumour control: Social media users are cautioned against spreading misinformation.
  • Media guidelines: TV channels have been requested to use "time and date stamps" on visuals to avoid misleading the public with old footage.

"India is the world's 4th largest refiner. Our high-capacity utilisation and diverse sourcing from 40 countries allow us to sustain this crisis," an official said.