The union government has moved to shore up energy availability and calm public concerns amid evolving global uncertainties, announcing an increase in LPG allocation for industries while firmly dismissing rumours of any impending nationwide lockdown.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Friday announced that the commercial (non-domestic) LPG allocation will be raised by an additional 20%, taking the total supply to 70% of pre-crisis levels. The move is aimed at easing pressure on key industrial sectors and ensuring continuity of operations.

The additional allocation will prioritise labour-intensive and core sectors such as steel, automobiles, textiles, chemicals, and plastics—particularly units where LPG use cannot be substituted by natural gas due to process-specific requirements.

The ministry also reiterated existing conditions requiring industries to register with oil marketing companies and apply for piped natural gas (PNG) connections, although exemptions may be granted where substitution is not feasible.

Government moves to reassure public

Amid speculation and social media chatter around potential disruptions, petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri issued a strong reassurance, stating that India is closely monitoring global developments across energy and supply chains in real time.

"The global situation remains in flux, and we are closely monitoring developments across energy, supply chains, and essential commodities on a real-time basis," Puri said.

“Rumours of a lockdown in India are completely false. There is no such proposal under consideration,” Puri added, urging citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation.

He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted availability of fuel, energy, and other essential commodities.

"Under the leadership of Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi, all necessary steps are being taken to ensure uninterrupted availability of fuel, energy, and other critical supplies for our citizens. We are fully prepared to handle emerging challenges," the petroleum minister said.

"India has consistently demonstrated resilience in the face of global uncertainties, and we will continue to act in a timely, proactive, and coordinated manner," he added.

Part of broader energy stabilisation effort

The LPG allocation increase comes alongside recent steps to moderate fuel costs, including a cut in excise duty on petrol and diesel, aimed at cushioning consumers and controlling inflationary pressures.

States have also been urged to expedite reforms to unlock additional allocations linked to PNG transition targets.