Today, the government reassured that all refineries are operating at full capacity with adequate crude oil inventory. Domestic LPG production remains stable, and sufficient stock is available. Addressing an inter-ministerial briefing on recent developments in West Asia held in New Delhi today, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Sujata Sharma, informed that 11,300 tonnes of commercial LPG have been supplied to consumers in the last week. She said that domestic LPG production has increased by 40%, and there are no shortages at retail outlets. She also said that there has been a reduction in panic booking for LPG, and online bookings have increased to 93%. Speaking about enforcement actions against black marketing and hoarding, she said that over 4,500 raids were conducted across the country yesterday.
Special Secretary for the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, said that in the past 24 hours, no maritime incidents have been reported, and all 22 ships and 611 Indian seafarers are safe. He said that the DG Shipping is continuously monitoring them. He also informed that there is no congestion at any port and that several measures have been taken to manage cargo movement. He said that the New Mangalore Port has announced concessions on charges for crude and LPG handling. He added that the Government continues to closely monitor shipping movements and the safety of Indian seafarers amid the evolving situation in West Asia.
External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with leaders of Oman, Malaysia, France, Jordan, and Qatar, outlining India's position on the West Asia conflict and stressing dialogue, de-escalation, and peace. Mr. Jaiswal said that the Prime Minister strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure, while all sides reaffirmed support for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and continued coordination. The EAM Spokesperson said that India has evacuated 913 nationals, including 284 pilgrims, via the Armenia-Azerbaijan route.
Aseem Mahajan, Joint Secretary (Gulf) at the Ministry of External Affairs, informed that 15 Indian crew members of MT Safesea Vishnu, who were safely rescued from Iraq yesterday, are expected to return to India today. He said that 24 rescued Indian seafarers, including 16 who were on board MV MKD Vyom and 8 on board MT Skylight, had earlier arrived in India from Oman. He further informed that Qatar Airways is expected to operate 10 non-scheduled flights to India today. Mr. Mahajan said that six Indian nationals have lost their lives and one remains missing in separate incidents across the Gulf region. He added that Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iraq, and the UAE are in regular contact with the concerned authorities regarding the missing Indian nationals and for the early repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased Indian nationals to India.