The central government has clarified that India’s fuel situation remains stable and fully under control, dismissing widespread reports of shortages as false and misleading. According to an official statement, the country currently has around 60 days of fuel stock, which includes crude oil, refined petroleum products, and strategic reserves. Authorities stressed that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG anywhere in the country and that all fuel outlets are functioning normally without any rationing.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas stated that more than one lakh fuel retail outlets across India are operating smoothly and supplying fuel as usual. It added that isolated incidents of panic buying in some areas were triggered by misleading posts on social media, not by any actual supply disruption. To manage the sudden spike in demand, depots have been operating round the clock, ensuring that supplies remain uninterrupted. Oil companies have also extended credit to petrol pumps to over three days from the earlier one day to maintain continuous availability.

The government described the shortage claims as a “deliberate, coordinated misinformation campaign” intended to create panic among citizens. It emphasised that such rumours have no basis and urged people to rely only on official sources for accurate information. The ministry also warned that spreading false information about fuel shortages or emergency measures is punishable under the law.

India’s strong refining capacity has played a key role in maintaining stability. The country is among the world’s largest refiners and exporters of petroleum products, supplying fuel to over 150 countries. Officials said that all Indian refineries are currently operating at more than 100% capacity, ensuring that domestic demand is fully met. In addition, crude oil supplies for the next 60 days have already been secured, leaving no gap in availability.

The ministry also highlighted that India’s total fuel storage capacity stands at around 74 days, while the actual stock cover is currently about 60 days. This includes crude oil reserves, refined products, and fuel stored in underground strategic reserves. With procurement for the next two months already arranged, the government said that the country is well-prepared to handle any global uncertainties.

Despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East and concerns around key supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz, crude oil inflows into India remain stable. Supplies from more than 41 global sources, especially from the western hemisphere, have helped offset any disruptions. This diversified sourcing strategy has ensured that the country’s fuel supply chain continues to function without interruption.

On LPG availability, the government confirmed that supplies are sufficient across the country. Domestic refinery production has been increased to 40–50 thousand metric tonnes per day, which meets over 60% of total demand. The remaining requirement is being fulfilled through secured imports, with around 800 thousand metric tonnes of LPG shipments from countries like the United States, Russia, and Australia already on the way. Oil companies are currently delivering more than 50 lakh LPG cylinders daily, and demand has begun to stabilise after an initial surge caused by panic bookings.

The government also clarified that the push for piped natural gas (PNG) is part of a long-term energy transition strategy and not due to any shortage of LPG. It noted that India currently produces 92 MMSCMD of natural gas against a demand of 191 MMSCMD, and efforts are ongoing to expand city gas distribution networks across the country.

Reiterating its stance, the government urged citizens not to panic or hoard fuel. It emphasised that India’s energy supply remains secure and that there is no reason for concern. The ministry concluded by advising people to ignore rumours and depend only on verified information to avoid unnecessary disruption in fuel distribution.