Common people should not suffer because of war: BJP's Sanjay Saraogi says govt taking steps to ensure gas supply
New Delhi, March 11
Bihar BJP State President Sanjay Saraogi on Wednesday said the Centre is taking steps to ensure that people do not face difficulties due to disruptions in gas supplies amid the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region.
"As the war continues in the Gulf region, involving countries like Iran, the United States and Israel, gas supplies have been affected. However, the Government of India is ensuring that the public does not face difficulties," Saraogi told IANS.
He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed ministers to ensure that the ongoing war does not impact common citizens. "The Prime Minister yesterday told Cabinet ministers that common people should not suffer because of the ongoing war. The government is also considering invoking provisions under the Essential Commodities Act to prevent black marketing of gas," he said.
Saraogi further stated that a committee involving the country's three major oil and gas companies has been formed to increase LPG cylinder production. He added that state governments are also taking measures to prevent any shortage and ensure an uninterrupted supply for consumers.
Meanwhile, earlier on Tuesday, government sources stated that there is no need to panic, as authorities are actively working to meet the country's oil and energy requirements. The government is expanding its sourcing strategy and plans to import oil from a larger number of countries to ensure adequate supply.
Earlier, India procured oil and energy resources from 27 countries, but amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, the government has widened its network and is now sourcing supplies from around 40 countries.
Officials said the Centre has broadened its procurement horizon to safeguard the nation's energy needs. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has already reached out to several prospective supplier nations to strengthen supply arrangements and ensure energy availability as soon as possible. The plan, sources said, is already being implemented.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to see proactive steps, but I'll believe it when I see it. Last time there was a crisis, prices shot up and there were long queues at gas agencies. The committee must ensure fair distribution and strict action against black marketers. 🙏
Diversifying from 27 to 40 countries for oil imports is a smart strategic move. It reduces dependency on any single volatile region. This is how you build energy security for a nation of 1.4 billion.
While the intent is good, I hope the focus remains on clean energy transition in the long run. These conflicts show how fragile fossil fuel supply chains are. India should accelerate its solar and green hydrogen plans.
My mother was worried about cooking gas for the upcoming festivals. This assurance from the government is a relief. Hope the state governments coordinate properly so that remote areas also get supply.
The real test is in execution. Forming committees is one thing, but getting cylinders to every household without price gouging is another. The Essential Commodities Act must be used firmly. No excuses this time.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.