New Delhi, 10 March 2026: Rising tensions in West Asia and the resulting surge in global crude oil prices have started affecting fuel markets worldwide. In India, the central government has taken precautionary steps to ensure there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or cooking gas.
As part of these measures, the government has taken a major decision regarding domestic LPG cylinder bookings.
The Ministry of Petroleum has increased the minimum gap between two LPG cylinder bookings from 21 days to 25 days. Officials said the decision has been taken to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders, which has reportedly been observed in some places, particularly in the commercial gas segment.
Authorities clarified that there is currently no shortage of domestic LPG, petrol or diesel across the country. However, the change in booking rules has been introduced as a precautionary step to maintain stable supply and prevent stockpiling.
To further ensure smooth distribution, the government has also implemented the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) in the sector.
Under the new rule, households will now have to maintain a gap of around 24 days between booking two LPG cylinders. This change comes shortly after the government had increased the booking interval from 15 days to 21 days just three days earlier.
Along with the new booking rules, LPG prices have also gone up. The price of domestic LPG cylinders has increased by ₹60, while commercial LPG cylinders have become costlier by ₹114.5.
According to Indian Oil Corporation data, the price of a 14.2 kg non-subsidised LPG cylinder in Delhi has risen to ₹913 from ₹853 earlier. In Mumbai, the cylinder now costs ₹912.50. The price stands at ₹939 in Kolkata and ₹928.50 in Chennai.
The price of a 19 kg commercial LPG cylinder has now reached ₹1,883 after the latest hike.
The government has also prioritised the supply of imported LPG to essential sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions apart from domestic consumers.
Industry representatives have raised concerns about the shortage of commercial LPG and industrial gas in several parts of the country.
Rajesh Agrawal, National President of the Agrawal Marwadi Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Education, said industries such as hotels, restaurants, food processing units and small businesses are already facing difficulties due to limited supply.
He said the shortage is affecting production in multiple sectors and warned that if the situation does not improve soon, several industries may have to cut production or temporarily shut operations. According to him, such a situation could threaten the livelihoods of thousands of workers and negatively impact the country’s economy.
Industry bodies have urged the government to increase the supply of commercial LPG and industrial gas, ensure balanced distribution between domestic and industrial sectors, explore alternative import sources and take strict action against black marketing and artificial shortages in the market.
