The central government has announced a 60‑day emergency plan to ease the pressure on LPG supplies by distributing subsidised kerosene through the public distribution system (PDS) in all states and union territories. The aim is to give households an alternative cooking fuel amid LPG shortages or high prices.
Under the plan, kerosene will be supplied to states and union territories for limited sale to eligible consumers. To make it easier for households to access, kerosene can also be sold at petrol pumps and other authorised outlets, in addition to regular PDS shops. This is intended to reach people in areas where PDS coverage is low.
The move comes as LPG demand has risen sharply in recent months due to higher household use and export demand. Many families, especially in rural and low-income areas, have faced difficulties in getting LPG cylinders at affordable prices.
Officials emphasised that the kerosene allocation is temporary and meant to provide relief while LPG supplies stabilise. The 60‑day period will help authorities monitor demand and distribution and decide on any future measures.
States and union territories are responsible for distributing the kerosene fairly, prioritising below-poverty-line families and households without access to piped cooking gas. Local authorities will coordinate with PDS shops and petrol pumps to ensure smooth delivery.
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