Govt Doubles 5kg LPG Supply To Stem Migrant Exodus Amid Fuel Crisis

NEW DELHI — In a major move to prevent a mass exodus of migrant laborers, the Indian government on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, announced a doubling of the supply of 5kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders. The decision follows reports of severe fuel shortages in industrial hubs, which had prompted some factories to set up community kitchens to prevent their workforce from leaving.

1. The “Migrant-Only” Supply Boost
   Petroleum Secretary Neeraj Mittal has directed state chief secretaries to prioritize the disbursal of these small cylinders specifically to the migrant workforce.

The Strategy: 5kg FTL cylinders will be channeled through state food and civil supplies departments in coordination with state-run Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

Ease of Access: In a bid to remove bureaucratic hurdles for temporary workers, consumers only need valid ID proof to purchase these cylinders; no address proof is required.

Pricing: These cylinders are currently priced at ₹549 in Delhi.

2. Current Fuel Availability & Statistics
   Despite the targeted boost for small cylinders, the overall fuel supply chain remains stable, according to Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma.

LPG Delivery: Home delivery remains normal, with 96% online booking and 90% OTP-based delivery to prevent black marketing.

Commercial Supply: Supply for hotels and hostels has been restored to 70% of total requirements.

Sales Surge: Following the April 7 order, daily sales of 5kg FTL cylinders jumped from an average of 77,000 to approximately 100,000 on Monday alone.

3. Awareness and Distribution Efforts
   OMCs have ramped up their outreach to ensure migrants know where to access fuel.

Awareness Camps: 1,300 camps have been organized across India, resulting in the direct sale of 10,000 cylinders.

Recent Volume: Since March 23, 2026, approximately 7.8 lakh (780,000) 5kg FTL cylinders have been sold nationwide.

LPG Supply Priority Hierarchy (Govt Policy)