- Inter-Ministerial Briefing on Recent Developments in West Asia
- All 20 Indian Crew Members of MT Jalveer Safe; Rs 10 Lakh Assistance Announced for Families of Three Indian Seafarers Killed in MT Settebello Attack
- Fertiliser and Cooking Gas Supplies Remain Stable; Over 9 Lakh New PNG Consumers Added as Centre Promotes Shift from LPG to Piped Gas Networks
- Government expresses its concerns on the recent incidents involving merchant vessels in the Persian regionAll the 20 Indian crew members on board the commercial vessel MT Jalveer, a Guinea Bissau-flagged vessel are reportedly safe; Indian Mission in Oman coordinated with the Omani authorities for the safe rescue of the Indian crewSeaman Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) directed to pay Rs10 lakh to the families of the 3 Indian crew members deceased during the attack on the commercial vessel MT Settebello Approx. 153.79 LMT fertilizers added through imports and Domestic production in the availability after crisis situationIndia’s fertiliser security remains strong, stable, and well-managed, with availability consistently exceeding requirement across all major fertilisersAbout 9.42 Lakh PNG connections gasified and infrastructure created for 3.12 Lakh more connections; about 9.44 Lakh new customers registered for new connections since March 2026Centre writes to States/UTs to encourage migration of LPG consumers to PNG in areas with network availabilityAbout 1.91 lakh 5-kg free trade LPG cylinders sold in last three days; more than 10,000 sold through about 566 camps
New Delhi. : Amid the evolving situation in West Asia, the Government of India continues its efforts to keep citizens informed through regular updates. In this regard, a media briefing was held today at the National Media Centre, where officers from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of External Affairs provided updates on fuel availability, maritime operations, assistance to Indian nationals in the region, and measures being undertaken to maintain stability across key sectors. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has also shared updates regarding the availability and stock position of fertilizers in the country.
Fertilizer stock position and availability
- Overall Stock Position of Fertilizers in the country is comfortable.
- For Kharif 2026, the fertiliser requirement has been re-assessed by DA&FW at 383.9 LMT, against this stock as on today is around 195.79 LMT (more than 51%), significantly higher than the usual level of about 33%. This reflects improved planning, advance stocking, and efficient logistics management by the Government.
- Indian farmers already purchased total 94.60 LMT chemical fertilizers in the on-going Kharif-2026 till 07.06.2026. Approx. 25% of the total requirement.
- Stock of Organic Manure in the country is available approx. 22.80 LMT.
- Indian farmers purchased 11.38 LMT of organic manure (FOM/LFOM/PROM) after the war (Punjab 2.88 LMT, UP 2.76 LMT, Haryana 1.37 LMT, MP 1.27 LMT, Gujarat 0.98 LMT, Maharashtra 0.84 LMT) compared to 3.24 LMT during the corresponding period last year. This substantial increase reflects a positive trend towards greater adoption of organic nutrient sources and indicates a gradual shift in farmers’ preference from chemical fertilizers to organic alternatives.
- At present, no major challenge in the availability of fertilizers for the on-going Kharif Season.
- Domestic production and import of fertilizers after crisis;-(Lakh Tons)
| Product | Domestic production after crisis | Import reached on Indian Ports after crisis |
| Urea | 71.41 | 20.13 |
| DAP | 10.04 | 3.13 |
| NPKs | 22.96 | 7.93 |
| SSP | 13.74 | 0 |
| MOP | 0 | 4.45 |
| Total | 118.15 | 35.64 |
- Total of approx. 153.79 LMT fertilizers through imports and Domestic production has been added in the availability after crisis situation.
- During this on-going crisis period India has secured more than 50 LMT Urea and P&K fertilizers.
- In coordination with 28 Missions abroad, India has secured supplies of Urea from Oman , Malaysia, Vietnam, Georgia, Nigeria, Russia, Finland, Egypt, Algeria, Turkey, Netherlands and DAP/NPKs from Russia, Morocco, Egypt, USA, Jordan, South Korea, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia – Via Red Sea etc.
- In the on-going June, it is expected to reach more than 25 LMT imported Urea, DAP and NPKs on the Indian ports.
- India has issued global tender for procurement of 17 LMT Urea, which is under progress.
- Availability of inputs for production of fertilizers i.e. Urea and P&K fertilizers is being regularly reviewed by the Department of Fertilizers.
- DoF is regularly paying all the subsidy bills raised by the companies on weekly basis and at present, adequate budget is available for payment of fertilizers subsidy.
- 12 Meetings of EGoS held till date to ensure the adequate availability of the fertilizers and most of the challenges in the availability addressed by EGoS.
- India’s fertiliser security remains strong, stable, and well-managed, with availability consistently exceeding requirement across all major fertilisers.
Energy Supply and Fuel Availability
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas provided an update on the current fuel supply situation, outlining measures being taken to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG in the context of the evolving situation in West Asia. It was noted that:
Crude Position and Refinery Operations
- All refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories, while sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel are being maintained.
- Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption.
- An inter-ministerial Joint Working Group (JWG) has been set up to ensure availability of petrochemical feedstock supply for the domestic market. Govt. of India vide order dated 01.04.2026 has permitted Oil Refinery companies including Petrochemical Complexes to make certain minimum quantities of C3 & C4 streams available for critical sectors as determined by Centre for High Technology (CHT).
- Based on requests received from the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Department of Chemicals & Petro Chemicals (DCPC), Dept. for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), provision for C3-C4 molecules of 1120 MT/day, from LPG pool, has been made for Pharma, Chemical and Paint sector companies.
- Since 01-June-26, more than 4180 MT of C3-C4 Molecules (comprising Propylene and Butylene) and around 3460 MT of Butyl Acrylate has been sold by Mumbai, Kochi, Vizag, Chennai, Mathura and Gujarat refineries to Chemical, Pharma and Paint Industries.
Retail Fuel Availability and Pricing Measures
- All Retail outlets are operating normally across the country.
- The Middle East crisis has led to an abnormal increase in crude prices; however, to protect consumers, the Government of India has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre.
- Unusually high sales and heavy crowding observed at Retail outlets in certain areas; however, adequate stocks of petrol and diesel are available at all Petrol Pumps across the country.
Excise duty exemption on higher ethanol-blended petrol (E22, E25, E27, E30) in continuation to exemption already available on ethanol blends up to E20
- The Central Government has been implementing Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme with multiple objectives of crude oil substitution, savings in foreign exchange, related environmental benefits and boost to domestic agriculture sector. With the concerted efforts of the Government, ethanol blending by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) has increased from 1.53 % in ESY 2014-15 to 20% in ESY 2025-26. Since ESY 2014-15 (till May, 2026), the programme has resulted in expeditious payment to farmers to a tune of Rs. 1.62 lakh crore, foreign exchange saving of more than Rs.1.91 lakh crore, net CO2 reduction of approx. 931 lakh metric tonnes and crude oil substitution of about 310 lakh metric tonnes.
- Ethanol blending with Petrol is a manufacturing activity which can be subjected to Excise Duty. Petrol bears excise duty and ethanol bears GST at their respective stages. When the two are blended, the resulting product may attract excise duty once again on the full quantity.
- For ethanol blends of petrol up to 20%, excise duty on the blended petrol was exempted by the Ministry of Finance. The exemption ensures that the duties already paid are not charged a second time on the blend.
- BIS standards for higher ethanol blends (E22, E25, E27 and E30) have recently been issued in May 2026. The same excise duty waiver has now been extended to E22, E25, E27 and E30 vide notification dated 10 June 2026.
- This is a preliminary prerequisite for higher blends but doesn’t convey anything about roll out of higher blends which will only be done after extensive testing and consultation.
- The sole purpose of this notification is to avoid double levy of excise duty on ethanol-blended petrol.
Natural Gas Supply and PNG Expansion Initiatives
- Consumers have been prioritised with 100% supplies to D-PNG and CNG-Transport.
- Supply to operating Urea Plants is currently at around 98% of their average consumption over the preceding six months.
- Gas supply to other industrial and commercial sectors, including supplies through CGD networks, is enhanced up to 80%.
- CGD entities have been advised to prioritize PNG connections for commercial establishments such as hotels, restaurants and canteens across all their GAs, to address concerns regarding the availability of commercial LPG.
- Govt. of India has requested Govt. of States/UTs and Central Ministries to expedite approval of applications required for expansion of CGD network.
- Govt. of India vide letter dated 18.03.2026 has offered all States/UTs additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG to States provided they can help in long-term transition from LPG to PNG.
- 22 States/UTs are receiving additional Commercial LPG allocation linked to PNG expansion reforms.
- Govt. of India vide Gazette dated 24.03.2026 has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The Order provides a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines across the country, addressing delays in approvals and access to land, and enabling faster development of natural gas infrastructure, including in residential areas. It is expected to accelerate PNG network growth, enhance last-mile connectivity, and support the transition to cleaner fuels, thereby strengthening energy security and advancing India’s gas-based economy.
- PNGRB has directed CGD entities to expedite D-PNG connections. The National PNG Drive 2.0 (01.01.2026–31.03.2026) has now been extended till 30.06.2026 to sustain momentum in PNG expansion.
- To encourage a cleaner, more secure and self-reliant energy future, Govt. of India has developed a model draft State CBG Policy intended to serve as a comprehensive flexible guiding framework to enable States to create their own investor-friendly and implementation-oriented ecosystem for CBG development. States opting for this will be prioritized for the next tranche of additional allocation of commercial LPG.
- Since March 2026, about 9.42 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure has been created for additional 3.12 Lakh connections, taking the total to 12.54 Lakh connections. Further, about 9.44 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections.
LPG Supply
Domestic LPG Supply Status:
- LPG Supply continues to be affected by the prevailing situation.
- Supply of LPG to domestic households has been prioritised.
- No dry-outs have been reported at LPG distributorships.
- Online LPG cylinder bookings have increased to about 99% on industry basis yesterday.
- Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) based deliveries have been increased to about 96% to prevent diversion at the distributor level. DAC is received on the registered mobile number of the consumer.
- In the last 3 days, about 1.49 Crore LPG cylinders were delivered against bookings of around 1.40 Crore LPG cylinders.
Commercial LPG Supply and Allocation Measures:
- Govt of India has decided to allocate total commercial allocation to 70% of the pre-crisis level incl. 10% reform based.
- In the last 3 days-
- About 1.91 Lakh – 5 Kg FTL cylinders were sold.
- More than 10,000 – 5kg FTL cylinders were sold through about 566 camps.
- Total of 22339 MT of Commercial LPG has been sold.
- About 736 MT of Auto LPG has been sold by PSU OMCs
Coordinated Efforts with States/UTs and Institutional Mechanisms
- State Governments are empowered under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and LPG Control Order, 2000 to monitor supply and act against hoarding and black marketing
- Govt. of States/UTs have to play a primary role in monitoring and regulating supply situation of essential commodities including Petrol, Diesel and LPG. Govt. of India has reiterated the same via multiple letters and VCs to all States/UTs.
- Government of India vide multiple letters and VCs have stressed the need for proactive public communication to reassure citizens regarding adequate fuel availability.
- Govt. of India vide letter dated 26.05.2026 has requested Chief Secretaries of all States/UTs to issue appropriate directions to State/district authorities to monitor and review district-wise HSD/MS offtake pattern, intensify inspections and enforcement activities in vulnerable areas and along major transportation/industrial corridors to prevent unauthorized procurement of HSD through retail outlets by industrial and commercial consumers, and initiate prompt penal action against violators.
- Govt. of India vide letter dated 10.06.2026 has requested Chief Secretaries of all States/UTs to issue necessary instructions to District Collectors/District Magistrate/Commissioner/Special officers of urban bodies to collaborate with respective SLCs/CGD entities to nudge and urge LPG consumers to fully migrate to PNG, wherever available. The involvement of the district and urban body administration will improve the outcome of ongoing efforts of the Govt. in expanding PNG network.
Enforcement and Monitoring Actions
- Enforcement actions by States/UTs continue across the country to curb hoarding and black marketing of Petrol, Diesel and LPG.
- LPG related enforcement – In the last 3 days, 2 FIRs were registered, 1 Person was arrested and 225 cylinders were seized across the country.
- Petrol, Diesel related enforcement – In the State of Manipur, 3680 Litres of Petrol was seized, 1 FIR was registered and 2 persons were arrested.
- Similarly, the surprise inspections by the PSU OMCs officials are also continuing-
- LPG distributorships – Penalties have been imposed on 19 LPG distributorships for indiscipline behaviour during last 3 days.
- Retail Outlets – During last 3 days, Penalties have been imposed on 14 Retail Outlets, and 461 Retail outlets have been put under suspension for violation of market discipline guidelines.
Government Preparedness and Supply Management Measures
- Despite the ongoing geopolitical situation, the Government has ensured that 100% supply is being made to Domestic LPG, Domestic PNG and CNG (Transport).
- For commercial LPG, priority has been given to hospitals and educational institutions. Priority has also been given to pharma, steel, automobile, seed, agriculture, etc.
- Supply of 5 Kg FTL has been increased to support LPG requirement of migrant labour, student etc
- The Government has already implemented several rationalisation measures on both the supply and demand side, including enhancing refinery production, increasing the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas, and prioritising sectors for supply.
Public Advisory and Citizen Awareness
- Govt. is making all efforts to ensure availability of Petrol, Diesel and LPG. Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of Petrol, Diesel and booking of LPG.
- Beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information.
- Citizens are requested to use alternate fuels like PNG, induction/electric cooktops, etc.
- Bulk and industrial consumers are requested to procure diesel from authorized procurement channels.
- In the current situation, all citizens are requested to make necessary efforts to conserve energy in their daily usage.
Maritime Safety and Shipping Operations
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on the prevailing maritime situation in the Persian Gulf, detailing measures being undertaken to ensure the safety and security of Indian vessels and crew in the region. It was stated that:
- Government expresses its concerns on the recent incidents involving merchant vessels in the Persian region. Details of recently reported incidents are as follows:
- On 08 June 2026, a fire was reported onboard Palau flagged vessel MT MARIVEX, near the Omani coast. There were 24 Indian crew, and all crew members were safely rescued by Omani Air Force
- On 10 June 2026 i.e. yesterday, vessel MT SETTEBELLO, Palau flagged, Oil tanker was attack and onboard emergency procedures were initiated. At the time of the incident, there were total 28 Seafarers were on the board including 24 Indian, 2 Pakistani, 1 Russian and 1 Ukrainian. Unfortunately, 3 Indian crew members, have lost their life and we extend our deepest condolences.
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- The remaining 25 crew member including 21 Indians have been safely evacuated.
- The ministry through DGS is in touch with the Next of Kin (NOK) of all deceased crew members and providing all supports.
- Seaman Welfare Fund Society (SWFS) has been asked to pay Rs10 lakh to the families of each deceased.
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- On 11 June 2026 i.e. today, Guinea-Bissau flagged vessel Asphalt/Bitumen Tanker MT JALVEER (IMO: 9486283) was reportedly involved in a maritime security incident in the vicinity of Shinas Port, Oman. The vessel has 20 Indian seafarers onboard, all of whom are reported to be safe. No casualties or injuries have been reported.
- The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) is closely monitoring the situation and is in continuous coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions abroad, and other relevant stakeholders.
- DG Shipping Control Room Update: The Control Room has handled 12,331 calls and more than 27,515 emails since activation. In the last 72 hours, a total of 311 calls and 683 emails have been received from seafarers, their families, and maritime stakeholders.
- Repatriation Update: The Ministry, through the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), has facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 3,537 Indian seafarers so far, including 31 in the last 72 hours from various locations across the Gulf region.
Safety of Indian Nationals in the Region
The Ministry of External Affairs continues to closely monitor the developments in the Gulf and West Asia region, with focused efforts on ensuring safety, security and welfare of the Indian community in the region. It was informed that:
- The Ministry of External Affairs is in constant touch with State Governments and Union Territories for sharing of information and coordination of efforts.
- Indian Embassies and Consulates across the region are on alert and are proactively assisting the Indian community. They are operating round-the-clock helplines to provide timely assistance to Indian nationals and are in close touch with local governments.
- Advisories are being issued including information related to local government guidelines, flight and travel situations, consular services, and the various welfare measures being undertaken for the community.
- Indian Missions are actively engaged with the resident Indian community. They are regularly interacting with Indian community associations, organizations, professional groups, and Indian companies to address their concerns.
Update on recent attacks on commercial vessels off the coast of Oman
Status Update on MT Marivex
- All the 24 Indian crew members on board MT Marivex were safely rescued.
- Indian Mission in Oman has been rendering all assistance to the and has been in constant touch with the concerned authorities to facilitate their early repatriation to India. They are expected to return to India tomorrow.
Status Update on MT Settebello
- India has condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MT Settebello, a Palau-flagged ship, off the coast of Oman.
- Ministry expresses deepest condolences to the families of the 3 Indian crew members who lost their lives. Indian mission in Oman is in close touch with the concerned authorities for early repatriation of their mortal remains.
- Our Mission is also rendering all assistance to the rescued Indian seafarers and remains in touch with the concerned authorities for their early return to India.
Status Update on MT Jalveer
- All the 20 Indian crew members on board the commercial vessel MT Jalveer, a Guinea Bissau-flagged vessel, that came under attack off Shinas port in Oman are reportedly safe.
- Our Mission in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinated with the Omani authorities for the safe rescue of the Indian crew.
- The continuing incidents affecting commercial shipping in the region are deeply concerning. Ministry reiterates the importance of ensuring the safety and security of seafarers, and of maintaining free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in accordance with international law.
- India has strongly protested the attack on a commercial vessel with the US Embassy in New Delhi. The US CDA was summoned yesterday by the Ministry of External Affairs for this purpose. The attacks on three commercial vessels with Indian seafarers onboard were mounted by the US Navy.





