In a significant move to shield the domestic economy from global energy volatility, the Central Government has increased the allocation of commercial LPG cylinders from 50% to 70%. This decision, announced by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, comes at a crucial time when the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have sent global energy markets into a tailspin.

According to a directive from Petroleum Secretary Dr. Neeraj Mittal, the increased quota will prioritize labor-intensive “process industries” such as steel, automobiles, textiles, and chemicals, where LPG is indispensable for specialized heating. This follows an earlier hike on March 23, which benefited hospitals, hotels, and educational institutions. Furthermore, about 180 five-kg cylinders are being allocated daily for migrant laborers.

Adding to the relief, the government has slashed the additional excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per liter. Following this reduction, the excise duty on diesel has effectively dropped to zero. Additionally, no windfall tax has been imposed on domestic crude producers like ONGC, signaling a stable environment for the energy sector despite international pressures.