Urgent Assurance: Iran-US War Spikes LPG Stock Confidence, Lebanon Casualty Concerns, & 1927 Seafarers’ Swift Repatriation!
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), alongside the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, held a press conference on April 10 to address several critical issues, including concerns over LPG stock, the repatriation of Indian seafarers, and escalating civilian casualties in Lebanon. MEA Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed deep concern regarding reports of significant civilian losses in Lebanon, reinforcing India’s commitment as a troop-contributing country to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). He emphasized the importance of civilian protection and adherence to international law, stating, “Our Embassy in Lebanon remains in close touch with the Indian community for its safety and security.”
In light of ongoing geopolitical developments in West Asia, Jaiswal noted that the Indian government is actively engaging with Gulf countries to enhance energy security. He mentioned that, following the Prime Minister’s directive, Indian ministers are visiting the Gulf region. External Affairs Minister is presently in Mauritius and will travel to the UAE on April 11 and 12, where he aims to strengthen India-UAE relations. Jaiswal also highlighted India’s support to neighboring countries, citing the recent supply of 38 metric tons of petroleum products to Sri Lanka as part of efforts to meet regional energy needs.
Additionally, the Minister of Petroleum is currently in Qatar, where energy cooperation is on the agenda. Jaiswal revealed that the Qatar Energy Minister has assured continued reliability in energy supplies to India, reinforcing the strategic energy partnership between the two countries.
Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, addressed the safety of Indian seafarers, confirming that all are currently safe and that there have been no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the past 24 hours. Mangal elaborated on the ministry’s proactive measures, noting, “We have facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 1,927 Indian seafarers, including 124 in the last 24 hours.” He assured that the ministry is coordinating with the MEA and maritime stakeholders to ensure the welfare of seafarers and maintain uninterrupted maritime operations.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, provided an update on the LPG supply situation, confirming that distributors and petrol pumps currently have adequate stock, with no reports of shortages. She stated that domestic LPG cylinder supplies maintain normal levels, with online bookings reaching approximately 98 percent. Additionally, 92 percent of deliveries are now being processed through OTP verification. Commercial LPG supplies have reportedly been restored to 70 percent of their capacity, with priority allocated to essential services, including hospitals and educational institutions.
This concerted effort across various ministries highlights India’s commitment to addressing pressing issues related to energy security, the safety of its citizens abroad, and ensuring the welfare of its maritime workforce. As the situation continues to develop, the Indian government remains vigilant and proactive in responding to both international challenges and domestic energy needs.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/iranus-war-govt-reassures-on-lpg-stock-voices-concern-on-lebanon-casualties-says-1927-seafarers-repatriate-in-24-hrs-11775816923060.html
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Publish Date: 2026-04-10 16:17:00
