National
Government Ramps Up 5-kg LPG Cylinder Sales to Tackle Fuel Anxiety
To address growing public anxiety over potential fuel shortages due to the Hormuz blockade, the Indian government has announced a massive ramp-up in the sale of 5-kg “Chhotu” LPG cylinders. These cylinders will now be available across-the-counter at all LPG distributorships and select petrol pumps upon showing a valid ID proof. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas assured the public this morning that India has sufficient strategic oil and gas reserves to last several weeks.
This move is specifically aimed at migrant workers, students, and low-income households who may be struggling with the rising costs of traditional 14.2-kg cylinders. In Delhi and other major metros, the price of commercial LPG has seen a slight uptick, leading to concerns about food inflation. By making smaller cylinders more accessible, the government hopes to curb “panic buying” and ensure that the most vulnerable sections of society have uninterrupted access to clean cooking fuel during the global energy crisis.