Rajasthan Secures 10% Boost in Commercial LPG Allocation Amid West Asia Tensions
In response to growing concerns over the evolving situation in West Asia, the Central government has approved a significant 10% increase in Rajasthan's allocation of commercial LPG. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced this development on Thursday, following a formal request from the state government. The move comes as international conflicts, including the Israel-Iran war, continue to disrupt global supply chains and raise fears of regional instability.
All-Party Meeting Addresses Fuel Security Concerns
During an all-party meeting convened at the Chief Minister's Office to review the LPG and petrol situation, CM Sharma provided reassurances about the availability of essential commodities. He stated that petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilizers are currently available in adequate quantities across Rajasthan and urged citizens to avoid panic buying. The government has implemented strengthened systems to ensure uninterrupted supply and minimize public inconvenience during this critical period.
Sharma expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promptly approving the additional LPG allocation, highlighting the collaborative efforts between state and central authorities. The meeting, which focused on the ongoing West Asia conflict's impact on fuel supplies, saw opposition parties demanding greater transparency regarding LPG cylinder and fuel stock levels. They insisted that petrol and diesel prices should remain stable under any circumstances.
Supply-Demand Gap and Stock Concerns Revealed
Government sources disclosed concerning statistics during the meeting, revealing that Rajasthan is currently facing a noticeable gap between LPG demand and supply. Daily bookings for LPG cylinders, which exceeded 5 lakh units just days ago, have plummeted to approximately 2.7 lakh, while daily supply stands at about 2.3 lakh cylinders. Officials estimated that Rajasthan's current LPG stocks would last approximately five days, raising legitimate concerns about potential shortages if demand surges unexpectedly.
Opposition Proposals and Cooperation Pledges
Opposition MLAs presented several key suggestions to address the evolving situation. These included implementing regular district-level monitoring of gas and oil distribution, accelerating the expansion of the PNG (Piped Natural Gas) network, and developing comprehensive contingency plans through alternative arrangements. Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully assured the government of full cooperation during the crisis, emphasizing that the opposition stands ready to support both the public and administration.
However, Jully strongly discouraged any potential increase in petrol and diesel prices, arguing that the government and oil companies—which benefited from lower crude prices in the past—should now absorb the impact by reducing taxes and special cesses. He warned that any fuel price hike could exacerbate inflation, disproportionately affect common citizens, and weaken the broader economy.
Additional Demands for Transparency and Accountability
Jully further urged the government to prevent unnecessary panic by making real-time data on demand, supply, and stock of essential commodities publicly accessible. RLD MLA Subhash Garg advocated for increased commercial LPG supply specifically for businesses, factories, hostels, and educational institutions. Jully also highlighted existing shortages of gas cylinders, questioned delays in approvals and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for PNG projects, and called for accountability and action against officials responsible for bureaucratic hold-ups.
Government's Proactive Measures and Monitoring Systems
Chief Minister Sharma detailed the state's proactive approach, noting that Rajasthan has been continuously reviewing stock positions and supply chains. A high-level state committee has been established specifically for monitoring purposes, while district-level teams comprising administrative and police officials have been tasked with maintaining vigilance over fuel distribution.
Sharma also confirmed that the Union government and Rajasthan are working collaboratively to ensure timely supply of urea and DAP (Diammonium Phosphate) to farmers. He encouraged citizens to report any instances of hoarding or black marketing of LPG. Food Minister Sumit Godara announced that OTP-based delivery of domestic LPG has been made mandatory to enhance transparency and security in the distribution process.
