India Strengthens Energy Security and Citizen Safety Amid West Asia Developments
New Delhi, March 29, 2026 — The Government of India has implemented a robust, multi-sectoral strategy to ensure national stability and the safety of its citizens as geopolitical tensions continue in West Asia. In a comprehensive update released today, the government confirmed that despite the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the country maintains adequate stocks of petrol and diesel. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and disregard rumors of shortages, noting that panic buying in some regions has been met with intensified enforcement, including over 2,900 raids to curb hoarding and black marketing. To further protect domestic consumers, the government has slashed excise duties on fuel by ₹10 per litre and imposed export levies on diesel and aviation turbine fuel to prioritize local availability.
The energy sector remains resilient, with refineries operating at high capacity and a significant push toward expanding the Piped Natural Gas (PNG) network. In March alone, over 2.9 lakh new gas connections were established across domestic and commercial categories. While the geopolitical situation has impacted LPG imports, the government has successfully increased domestic production and transitioned to a high-security “Delivery Authentication Code” system to prevent fuel diversion. Notably, two large LPG carriers carrying 94,000 MT of cargo have safely transited the region and are expected to arrive at Indian shores by early April. Supply to urea plants also remains steady at 70–75%, supported by the sourcing of additional LNG cargoes to maintain agricultural productivity.
Simultaneously, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways are working in tandem to safeguard Indian nationals and maritime interests. Approximately 5.24 lakh passengers have been repatriated from the region since late February, with flight operations continuing via calibrated routes through neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Armenia. The government is also monitoring 18 Indian-flagged vessels currently in the Persian Gulf, confirming that all 485 seafarers on board are safe. With 24/7 helplines active and port operations across India running without congestion, the administration remains committed to maintaining “business as usual” while providing continuous logistical and consular support to students, workers, and travelers abroad.