over-17-25-lakh-5-kg-lpg-cylinders-sold-since-march-23-govt

More than 17.25 lakh 5-kg free trade LPG (FTL) cylinders have been sold across the country since March 23, 2026, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said on Saturday, highlighting sustained measures to ensure cooking fuel availability amid prevailing geopolitical conditions.

 

In an official statement, the ministry said, “Since 23rd March 2026, more than 17.25 lakh 5 kg FTL cylinders have been sold.” It added that supply of 5-kg cylinders to migrant labourers has been significantly increased to meet rising demand in vulnerable sections.

 

“The supply of 5 kg FTL to migrant labour is also doubled based on average daily supply on 2nd and 3rd March 2026,” the ministry said, noting targeted distribution interventions.

 

The government further assured that supply of domestic LPG, domestic PNG and CNG (transport) remains fully uninterrupted across the country. “Despite the ongoing geopolitical situation, the Government has ensured that 100 per cent supply is being made,” it said.

Also read: 19 LPG cylinders found at Lal Chowk restaurant fire incident

To improve distribution efficiency, the ministry said several rationalisation measures have been implemented, including enhanced refinery production and prioritisation of essential sectors to maintain steady supply chains.

 

Public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) have also intensified outreach efforts to improve access to smaller cylinders. “Since 3rd April 2026, PSU OMCs have organised more than 6,450 awareness camps, wherein more than 90,000 5-kg FTL cylinders were also sold,” it added.

 

Meanwhile, enforcement drives have been stepped up to prevent diversion and misuse of cylinders. On April 17 alone, more than 2,500 raids were conducted across the country, leading to the seizure of over 750 cylinders, the ministry said.

 

Separately, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways stated that maritime operations remain stable, with no congestion reported at Indian ports. It also confirmed that all Indian seafarers in affected regions are safe and no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have been reported in the past 24 hours.

 

The government said it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating across ministries and states to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential fuels nationwide.