March 27, New Delhi: Continuing its efforts to keep the media informed about the evolving situation in West Asia, the Government of India held its regular interaction at the National Media Centre. Representatives from the Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ports, Shipping and Waterways, External Affairs, and Information and Broadcasting shared updates on fuel availability, maritime operations, assistance to Indian nationals, and steps to ensure stability across sectors. Senior officers from CBIC also provided updates on excise duty-related decisions.
Updates on tax and duties highlighted measures to maintain supply stability amid disruptions. Officials noted that rising international crude prices have impacted domestic markets, leading to calibrated interventions. Export duties have been imposed on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) through Special Additional Excise Duty and Road and Infrastructure Cess, while petrol exports currently remain duty-free. Export duties are set at ₹21.50 per litre for diesel and ₹29.50 per litre for ATF, with fortnightly reviews planned. Additionally, domestic excise duties on petrol and diesel have been reduced by ₹10 per litre to prevent retail price increases and protect consumers.
Regarding energy supply, the government stated that refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate inventories. Domestic LPG production has been significantly increased, while retail fuel outlets remain fully operational nationwide. Measures include mandated domestic supply commitments from refiners, increased LPG allocations, and advisories against panic buying. Natural gas allocation prioritizes domestic PNG and CNG users, while city gas distribution networks are being expanded with faster approvals and incentives. Regulatory and infrastructure reforms have been introduced to accelerate PNG adoption and pipeline connectivity.
In the LPG segment, allocations have been increased up to 70% of pre-crisis commercial levels, prioritizing key sectors such as hospitality, industry, and food services. Additional kerosene allocations have also been made to states. Enforcement actions are underway across states to prevent hoarding and black marketing, with thousands of raids conducted and cylinders seized. States and Union Territories have been urged to hold regular briefings, set up control rooms, and combat misinformation.
Regarding maritime operations, authorities confirmed that Indian seafarers in the region are safe, with no recent incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels. The Directorate General of Shipping continues round-the-clock monitoring and has facilitated the repatriation of hundreds of seafarers. Port operations across major coastal states remain normal, with no congestion reported.
Regarding the safety of Indian nationals, the Ministry of External Affairs said missions in the region are operating 24×7 helplines and assisting citizens, students, and seafarers. Around 4.75 lakh passengers have returned to India since late February. Alternate travel routes are being facilitated due to airspace restrictions in parts of the Gulf. Educational boards and testing agencies have also adjusted examinations for students in affected regions.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar participated in the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Paris, where he held bilateral discussions with global counterparts and emphasized UN reforms, resilient supply chains, and the concerns of the Global South, particularly on energy and food security. He also highlighted the need for stronger trade corridors amid ongoing regional conflicts.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting cautioned against rumours regarding shortages of petrol, diesel, and LPG, stating that adequate supplies are available and supply chains remain operational. Citizens have been urged to rely only on official information and avoid panic buying, while authorities continue monitoring the situation closely.
Source: PIB