Centre rolls out 60-day kerosene allocation under PDS to ease LPG pressure

The Centre has approved an ad hoc allocation of kerosene under the Public Distribution System (PDS) to states and Union Territories for a period of 60 days, in a bid to ease pressure on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies.

The move comes amid concerns over disruptions in global energy supply linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict, which has affected the availability and distribution of cooking fuel.

Under the emergency measure, additional kerosene will be supplied for essential household use such as cooking and lighting. The allocation also includes regions that had earlier been declared kerosene-free, indicating the scale of the current supply challenge.

Officials said the decision is intended as a temporary relief mechanism to reduce dependence on LPG and ensure that basic energy needs of households are met during the period of uncertainty.

The 60-day allocation is part of a broader strategy to manage fuel demand and maintain stability in domestic energy supply as global markets remain volatile. Authorities have emphasised that the step is precautionary and aimed at preventing shortages at the consumer level.

The development comes as the ongoing geopolitical tensions have begun impacting key energy supply chains, prompting governments to adopt contingency measures. In India, LPG remains the primary cooking fuel for a majority of households, making any disruption a matter of immediate concern.

By reintroducing kerosene through the PDS, the government is seeking to provide an alternative fuel option, particularly for economically vulnerable sections that rely on subsidised energy sources.

Officials are expected to monitor the situation closely over the coming weeks and may review allocations depending on supply conditions and demand trends.

The move underscores the government’s attempt to balance energy security and consumer needs amid a rapidly evolving global situation.