Today marks the 32nd day of ongoing tensions in the Middle East, raising concerns about energy supplies worldwide. Due to this situation, the government has decided to provide relief to the general public.
On Monday, March 30, the central government announced that kerosene will once again be available at ration shops and selected petrol pumps in 21 states
and union territories, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. This step has been taken because of global disruptions in energy and LPG supplies.
States and Union Territories Included
A total of 21 regions have been allowed to sell kerosene. These include 13 states: Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Sikkim, and Nagaland.
The approved union territories are Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Puducherry, Lakshadweep, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Duration and Supply Details
The government has started this scheme for 60 days from March 29 and it will continue until further notice. During this period, ration shops will provide kerosene to consumers at affordable prices.
In addition, up to two petrol pumps in each district will be selected to sell kerosene. Each of these petrol pumps can store a maximum of 5,000 liters of kerosene.
The central government has also provided an extra 48,000 kiloliters of Superior Kerosene Oil (SKO) to states, apart from their regular supply.
The amount of kerosene given to each household will be decided by state governments based on local demand and availability.
Important Rules to Follow
The government has set clear rules for the use of kerosene. It can only be used for cooking and lighting purposes. Its use for industrial or commercial activities is strictly not allowed.
Earlier, the supply of kerosene under the Public Distribution System (PDS) was stopped in many states for different periods. Now, it has been allowed again specifically for basic household needs like cooking and lighting.
The Petroleum Ministry has said that several steps are being taken to ensure uninterrupted energy supply across the country.
The government is closely monitoring the situation and making all necessary arrangements so that people do not face any energy-related problems.
