Maharashtra Government Moves to Secure Kerosene Supply as Alternative Fuel During LPG Crisis
In response to the ongoing global energy crisis and mounting concerns over cooking fuel availability, the Maharashtra state government has announced a strategic initiative to ensure adequate supply of kerosene as an alternate fuel at ration shops across the state. This move aims to alleviate pressure on households grappling with the recent LPG crunch and escalating fuel costs.
Minister Bhujbal Addresses Legislative Council on Fuel Strategy
Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection Minister Chhagan Bhujbal addressed the legislative council on Monday, detailing the state's plans to utilize kerosene as a backup fuel during shortages. He emphasized that Maharashtra currently maintains a sufficient stock of kerosene, with authorized dealers permitted to supply it in the market. To enhance transparency and prevent adulteration, the government is considering making kerosene available at fuel stations operated by the three major oil companies.
Expanded Access and Distribution Plans
The initiative is set to be extended statewide, targeting all ration card holders, not just those below the poverty line. Officials revealed that the state will receive an initial quota of 3,750 kilolitres of kerosene, which will be distributed through fair-price shops. A senior official noted that distributing kerosene through these shops was an old scheme discontinued 7-8 years ago, and the state will need to restart supply while assessing demand. The government must first identify wholesalers to lift kerosene from oil companies for this purpose.
With approximately 1.6 crore ration card holders in Maharashtra, this broad-based approach aims to cushion the impact of the LPG shortage. Minister Bhujbal assured that the Centre has confirmed adequate stocks of LPG and PNG, with LPG production increasing from 9,000 to 11,000 metric tonnes. While domestic LPG supply remains a priority, the government is also ensuring that essential sectors receive commercial LPG without disruption.
Monitoring and Enforcement Against Malpractices
To maintain stability, Bhujbal stated there is "no need to panic" as the state remains in constant communication with the Centre and oil companies. Every district is being closely monitored by local collectors and superintendents of police to prevent hoarding, diversion, and black marketing. Enforcement teams have already intensified actions, seizing 1,208 cylinders from the black market, filing 23 cases, and arresting 18 individuals involved in illegal activities.
Inclusion of Previously Excluded Citizens and Broader Economic Context
The minister indicated that citizens previously excluded from kerosene access after being covered under the Ujjwala subsidy scheme may now be reconsidered, given the current circumstances. This adjustment comes at a time when households are also facing rising edible oil prices, such as in groundnut and palm oil, further straining kitchen expenses.
Legislative Concerns and Public Clarifications
In the Legislative Council, BJP MLC Parinay Phuke raised concerns over the sharp rise in LPG prices and a surge in demand for induction cooktops, alleging that some sellers have increased prices unfairly. He urged the state government to take action against such profiteering. Additionally, the issue of e-KYC triggered panic among consumers, with fears that cylinder supply would cease after April 1. Dealers have clarified that cylinders will not be denied to consumers, and e-KYC is required only to avail subsidy benefits in the new fiscal year, aiming to allay public anxiety.
