India Tightens LPG Booking Rules, Extends Gap To 25 Days To Check Black Marketing

The government has extended the LPG booking interval from 21 days to 25 days to curb hoarding and black marketing, according to official sources. The move comes after authorities noticed a surge in early bookings, with some consumers who previously ordered cylinders every 55 days now placing orders within just 15 days, news agency ANI reported.

To ensure adequate supply, the government has directed refineries to increase LPG production and prioritise domestic consumers over commercial connections. Officials said domestic households will remain the top priority as India explores additional LPG supply partnerships.

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Several countries, including Algeria, Australia, Canada and Norway, have reportedly approached India to supply LPG amid rising global energy concerns.

Government sources also said petrol and diesel prices are unlikely to increase unless global crude oil prices cross USD 130 per barrel. Officials added that the country currently has sufficient fuel stocks and there is no shortage of petrol or diesel at fuel stations.

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Authorities have also accelerated crude oil sourcing through routes other than the Strait of Hormuz to avoid potential supply disruptions. Meanwhile, India has adequate reserves of aviation turbine fuel (ATF), with officials noting that the country is also a producer and exporter of the fuel.