Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that more than three crore fake user accounts have been removed from the IRCTC portal as part of a major crackdown on ticket touts and fraudulent bookings, reported news agency PTI. The move is aimed at ensuring fair access to railway tickets for genuine passengers and curbing illegal practices that often lead to artificial scarcity. Crackdown on Touts to Ensure Fair Ticket Access Responding to questions during the Question Hour, Vaishnaw said the removal of fake accounts has significantly helped in reducing the influence of touts who exploit the system to block tickets and resell them at higher prices, reported PTI. He emphasised that these measures are ensuring that genuine passengers now have better access to tickets, particularly during high-demand periods. Majority of Seats in Non-AC Categories Highlighting affordability, the minister noted that a large portion of railway capacity is focused on non-AC travel. Around 78 per cent of seats are in non-air-conditioned categories, while nearly 70 per cent of coaches are general and sleeper class, reported PTI. This, he said, reflects the government’s priority of providing economical travel options for the majority of passengers. Over 75,000 Special Trains Operated To address overcrowding, especially on long-distance routes, the Railways has operated more than 75,000 special trains in the current financial year. Vaishnaw added that the number of special trains introduced has increased compared to previous administrations, helping manage peak-season demand and improve passenger convenience, reported PTI. Focus on Safety Leads to Sharp Drop in Accidents The minister also highlighted improvements in railway safety, stating that consequential accidents have reduced by nearly 90 per cent due to sustained efforts and investments in infrastructure and monitoring systems, reported PTI. This marks a significant improvement in operational safety across the railway network. Govt Focus on Affordable and Comfortable Travel Vaishnaw reiterated that the government’s focus remains on delivering safe, affordable, and comfortable travel experiences. The combined approach of increasing capacity, cracking down on illegal practices, and enhancing safety is aimed at improving overall passenger satisfaction, reported PTI. Lok Sabha Pays Tribute to Former Members Earlier in the day, the Lok Sabha paid tributes to former members Visnu Modi and Datta Meghe, who passed away recently. Speaker Om Birla and members observed a moment of silence in their memory. The Speaker also urged members to maintain decorum and come prepared with the day’s agenda, following disruptions caused by sloganeering in the House. (With inputs from PTI)
25 March,2026 02:57 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIndia's oil companies on Wednesday reassured the public that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG across the country, urging citizens not to be misled by rumours circulating on social media or engage in panic buying, reported the PTI. Indian Oil Corporation, the nation’s largest oil firm, stated that “there is no shortage of petrol or diesel,” emphasising that its outlets are “well-stocked and fully operational.” The company warned that rumours “can create unnecessary concern and disrupt normal supply patterns” and urged citizens to “avoid panic buying and rely only on verified information.” BPCL denies localised sshortages Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd described reports of fuel shortages in certain areas as “completely unfounded,” asserting that there is “no shortage of fuel across the nation.” BPCL added that India is a net exporter of petrol and diesel and maintains “adequate stocks of crude oil, petrol, diesel and ATF,” with supply chains operating “smoothly without any disruption.” The company emphasised that it is “fully operational and committed to ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply”, according to the PTI. HPCL affirms stable supplies, adequate stocks The news agency reported, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd stated that there is “no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG across the country.” It advised customers not to be influenced by rumours or resort to panic buying and to “continue with normal consumption patterns.” HPCL reiterated its commitment to providing “an uninterrupted and seamless fuel supply” throughout its network. Impact of West Asia war on energy imports The ongoing conflict in West Asia has disrupted crude oil, LNG, and LPG supply chains. However, India’s diversified sourcing strategy has ensured sufficient supplies of crude oil from regions including West Africa, Latin America, and the United States, according to the PTI. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies have been affected due to damage to facilities in Qatar, India’s largest supplier, leading to prioritisation for domestic users and CNG, while some curtailment has been applied to industrial users, such as fertiliser plants. LPG has been the most affected, as India imports around 60 per cent of its requirements, mostly from Gulf countries. The government has prioritised supply to domestic households while restricting usage by commercial establishments, including hotels and restaurants, by at least 50 per cent. (with PTI inputs)
25 March,2026 02:37 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentPunjab Police have arrested Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra from Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, more than six months after he escaped police custody in an alleged rape case, reported the PTI. According to the news agency, the officials said the arrest took place late Tuesday night. The MLA, who represents Sanour in Patiala district, has been brought back to Punjab and will be produced before a court in Patiala. Senior Superintendent of Police Varun Sharma confirmed the development. Case background The case against Pathanmajra was registered on September 1, 2025, at a police station in Patiala. A woman from Zirakpur accused him of rape, cheating and criminal intimidation. According to the complaint, the MLA allegedly misrepresented himself as a divorcee and entered into a relationship with the woman. She claimed that he later married her in 2021 while already being married. The complainant also accused him of continued sexual exploitation, threats and sending obscene material. Escape and time on the run Pathanmajra had been absconding since September 2, 2025, when he escaped from police custody. The incident took place in Karnal, Haryana, where police had gone to arrest him. At the time, police alleged that his supporters created chaos by pelting stones and firing gunshots, allowing him to flee. However, Pathanmajra denied these claims and said he ran away because he feared a “fake encounter,” as reported by PTI. After his escape, he was declared a proclaimed offender, and a look-out notice was issued against him. Public statements during absconding period While on the run, Pathanmajra appeared in video interviews and denied all allegations. He described the case as a “political conspiracy” and claimed he would return only after securing bail. He also criticised the party leadership, alleging that important decisions were being taken without consulting ministers and MLAs. In another video, he claimed he was being targeted for raising issues related to governance and administrative decisions. Police efforts and investigation Punjab Police formed multiple teams, including members from the Anti-Gangster Task Force, to track him down. Raids were conducted across several states, including Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi. After months of search operations, the police finally located and arrested him in Gwalior. Further investigation in the case is ongoing. (With PTI Inputs)
25 March,2026 02:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major policy shift aimed at strengthening energy security and accelerating gas infrastructure, the Centre has mandated that LPG supply to households may be discontinued if consumers do not switch to piped natural gas (PNG) where such connectivity is available, reported news agency PTI. The move comes amid global supply disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict, which has impacted LPG availability and prompted the government to push for alternative fuel adoption. LPG Supply to Stop After Three Months of Non-Compliance According to the new order issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, LPG supply to a household will cease after three months if the consumer fails to opt for PNG despite availability, reported PTI. However, the provision includes an exception. LPG supply will continue in cases where PNG connectivity is “technically infeasible,” subject to a no-objection certificate issued by the authorised entity. Push for PNG to Reduce Dependence on LPG The directive is part of the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, which aims to promote a shift from LPG to PNG — a fuel that is continuously supplied through pipelines and eliminates the need for refill bookings, reported PTI. The government is encouraging households and commercial users to adopt PNG as a more reliable and efficient alternative, particularly during times of global supply uncertainty, reported PTI. Measure Aimed at Optimising LPG Distribution Officials said the move is intended to free up LPG supplies in areas where PNG networks already exist and redirect those supplies to regions that lack pipeline infrastructure, reported PTI. The policy also aligns with broader efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on a single fuel, especially as disruptions in global trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz continue to affect imports. Faster Approvals to Boost Pipeline Expansion The new order introduces several measures to speed up the rollout of PNG infrastructure. Authorities have been directed to grant permissions and right-of-way approvals within fixed timelines, failing which approvals will be deemed granted, reported PTI. In residential areas, housing authorities must provide access for pipeline installation within three working days, while last-mile PNG connectivity is to be ensured within 48 hours wherever feasible. Strict Compliance and Monitoring Framework The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has been designated as the nodal agency to monitor implementation, including tracking approvals, compliance, and progress of pipeline projects, reported PTI. Entities authorised to lay pipelines must begin work within four months of receiving approval or face penalties, including potential loss of exclusivity. Legal Backing Under Essential Commodities Act The order has been issued under the Essential Commodities Act, giving it strong legal backing. It also empowers designated officers with authority similar to civil courts to resolve disputes related to land access and pipeline installation. Govt Calls Move ‘Opportunity Amid Crisis’ Commenting on the development, Oil Secretary Neeraj Mittal described the initiative as turning a crisis into an opportunity through reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business and strengthening energy resilience, reported PTI. (With inputs from PTI)
25 March,2026 02:20 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentChaos prevailed at petrol bunks across Hyderabad on Wednesday as rumours of fuel shortage due to the ongoing war in West Asia triggered panic buying by customers. Long queues of motorists were seen at almost all retail outlets in the twin cities of Hyderabad, Secunderabad and the outskirts, even as authorities assured people that adequate stocks are available, reported ANI. Hundreds of vehicles, including trucks, buses, vans and cars, were seen at major filling stations, leading to traffic jams. Motorists were seen waiting in queues for several hours to fill petrol and diesel. Chaotic scenes were witnessed at fuel stations in the busy areas of Ameerpet, Khairatabad, Lakdi Ka Pul, Begumpet, Secunderabad, Nampally, Abids, Mehdipatnam, Koti, Attapur, Kukatpally, Erragadda, LB Nagar and Vanasthalipuram. ‘No stock’ boards at fuel stations amid panic buying; dealers say supply stable According to IANS, ‘no stock’ boards were put up at several bunks as panic buying led to exhaustion of stocks in no time. A similar situation prevailed in Medak, Mahabubnagar, Karimnagar, Warangal, Nirmal and other towns in Telangana. Meanwhile, the Telangana Petroleum Dealers Association has assured people that there is no shortage of fuel, and adequate stock is available with HPCL, IOCL and BPCL “Due to the circulation of false and misleading news regarding fuel shortage, many people are rushing to fuel stations and filling their tanks unnecessarily. This panic buying has led to an abnormal surge in sales -- nearly 2.5 to 3 times the normal levels -- resulting in temporary stock exhaustion at several retail outlets,” said Marri Amarender Reddy, president of Telangana Petroleum Dealers Association, reported IANS. He assured citizens that there is no shortage of fuel and that supply chains are functioning normally. Supply of oil is fully operational and sufficient; urges to not create panic among citizens The association also cautioned citizens that carrying petrol or diesel in cans for storage is against Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) norms and poses a serious safety risk. According to IANS, the Consumer Affairs, Food and Civil Supplies Department, Government of Telangana, categorically clarified that there is ‘absolutely no shortage of petrol, diesel, or domestic LPG anywhere in the state. The department said the supply chain from oil refineries to local depots is fully operational, and self-sufficient stock is available to meet the regular daily requirements of all citizens across all districts. Recent reports of long queues and temporary "No Stock" boards at certain retail petrol outlets are strictly the result of sudden, unwarranted panic buying fuelled by false rumours. When citizens unnecessarily rush to fill their tanks to full capacity, it creates an artificial scarcity, despite adequate fuel being available at the depots, reported IANS. The department also stated that recent administrative changes regarding advance-payment models by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have caused minor, temporary logistical adjustments for some local dealers. This is solely an internal administrative measure and has nothing to do with a lack of supplies. Meanwhile, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy will be holding a meeting with top officials later in the day to review the availability of petrol, diesel and LPG. (Inputs from IANS)
25 March,2026 02:11 PM IST | Hyderabad | mid-day online correspondentFinance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday stated that India is “riding on the reform express,” asserting that reforms are being implemented with conviction, clarity, and confidence under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Replying to the debate on the Finance Bill 2026 in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman emphasised that the ongoing economic reforms are not merely reactive measures but are being carried out out of clear commitment and trust in India’s growth trajectory, reported the PTI. “Reform is not happening out of compulsion, but out of conviction, with clarity, confidence and commitment. India is riding on the reform express under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” she stated, according to the news agency. Strengthening tax administration The Finance Minister highlighted the government’s focus on creating a trust-based tax administration. This includes reducing unnecessary hardship for honest taxpayers and making compliance easier while strengthening accountability. Sitharaman noted that simplifying the tax system and introducing measures to empower small businesses and individuals is central to the government’s economic agenda. “A trust-based approach ensures that citizens feel encouraged to comply voluntarily, reducing disputes and fostering a transparent environment,” she added, as per the PTI. More than what is collected as cess and surcharges is spent under schemes to states, Sitharaman said in the Lok Sabha. Empowering MSMEs, farmers, and cooperatives The Finance Bill 2026 aims to support key contributors to India’s economy, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), farmers, and cooperatives. Sitharaman pointed out that these sectors are at the heart of employment generation, production, and overall national development, according to the PTI. She said the Bill introduces measures that improve liquidity, reduce the compliance burden, and offer these sectors greater scope to contribute meaningfully to the economy. Customs reforms and trade facilitation Elaborating on the Bill, the Finance Minister stated that significant customs reforms have been proposed. The objective is to enhance trade facilitation by simplifying provisions, easing procedures, and making India a more attractive destination for international business. “These reforms reflect the government’s commitment to modernise India’s economic governance and ensure that policies are practical, growth-oriented, and inclusive,” Sitharaman added. (with PTI inputs)
25 March,2026 02:09 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Supreme Court on Wednesday declined to hear a petition challenging the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) circular issued on January 28, which standardises the protocol for India’s national song, Vande Mataram, reported the ANI. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi noted that the petition was filed prematurely. The court observed that the advisory circular carries no penal consequences, according to the ANI. “Does the January 28 notification lead to penal consequences? Is the person removed from the congregation if they don’t sing the song? Your petition is based on premature apprehension; if there is any penal consequence, you may come to us. This is just a vague apprehension of discrimination which may not have nexus with the impugned directive,” the bench said, the news agency reported. The court dismissed the plea, emphasising that it would only consider cases with actual penal impact. Background on MHA guidelines The Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier issued detailed instructions on the performance of Vande Mataram at official events in the country. When both the national song and the national anthem are performed, all six stanzas of the official version of Vande Mataram are to be presented first, as per the ANI. Some citizens have expressed a preference for singing only the first two stanzas, which were adopted as the national song by the Constituent Assembly in 1950. Opposition from Muslim organisations The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Thursday demanded the withdrawal of the MHA notification, describing it as unconstitutional and contrary to religious freedom and secular values, reported the ANI. In a statement, the Board’s General Secretary, Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi, said the directive conflicts with the religious beliefs of Muslims. He noted that following advice from Rabindranath Tagore and deliberations in the Constituent Assembly, only the first two stanzas were intended for official use, the news agency reported. Meanwhile, Maulana Arshad Madani, President of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, questioned the directive, terming it a “blatant attack on freedom of religion” in the country, as per the ANI. (with ANI inputs)
25 March,2026 01:51 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Karnataka Police on Wednesday transferred the ‘Zero FIR’ registered in connection with the plane crash that killed senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar to the Maharashtra Police, citing jurisdictional grounds, reported news agency IANS. The case, initially filed in Bengaluru, has now been forwarded along with all relevant documents, with a request to hand it over to the Baramati Rural Police Station in Pune district for further investigation, reported IANS. FIR Transfer Initiated on Jurisdiction Grounds Karnataka Additional Director General of Police (Crime and Technical Services) P Harishekaran formally communicated the transfer request to the Maharashtra Director General of Police, reported IANS. The Zero FIR was originally registered at High Grounds Police Station in Bengaluru, allowing the complaint to be filed irrespective of where the incident occurred. Authorities have now sought its transfer to the appropriate jurisdiction in Maharashtra, reported IANS. Complaint Alleges Criminal Conspiracy Behind Crash The FIR was filed by Rohit Pawar, who alleged a larger conspiracy behind the January 28, 2026 plane crash near Baramati Airport that claimed five lives, including Ajit Pawar, reported IANS. The complaint calls for a full criminal investigation and seeks to identify all individuals responsible, alleging that the crash was not merely accidental but part of a planned act. Delay in FIR Registration Raises Questions According to the complaint, attempts were initially made to file an FIR in Maharashtra, including at police stations in Mumbai and Baramati, but were unsuccessful. This led to the filing of a Zero FIR in Bengaluru, reported IANS. Police sources noted that the delay in registration was due to the complainant’s earlier efforts to pursue the matter within Maharashtra before approaching authorities in Karnataka, reported IANS. Technical and Safety Violations Highlighted The FIR raises multiple concerns regarding the aircraft involved — a Bombardier Learjet 45 operated by a private company. It alleges that the aircraft may have been operating beyond permissible safety limits and that maintenance records could have been falsified. The complaint also references a safety audit by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which reportedly flagged issues related to airworthiness and compliance, reported IANS. Questions Over Pilot, Crew and Flight Conditions Further allegations include concerns about the pilot’s past record, last-minute crew changes, and irregularities in flight operations. The complaint points to possible lapses in judgment and adherence to safety protocols. Weather conditions at the time of landing and runway changes shortly before touchdown have also been cited as factors requiring deeper investigation. Call for Independent Criminal Probe The complainant has demanded that the investigation go beyond the technical inquiry being conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), urging authorities to examine the possibility of criminal intent. The FIR invokes multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and calls for accountability across all levels, including operators, regulators, and other involved parties, reported IANS. Case Moves to Maharashtra for Further Action With the FIR now transferred, the Maharashtra Police are expected to take over the investigation and determine the course of action. (With inputs from IANS)
25 March,2026 01:47 PM IST | Bengaluru | mid-day online correspondentSeveral Opposition leaders staged a protest inside the Parliament House complex on Wednesday, alleging an LPG supply crunch and accusing the Centre of failing to address the issue effectively. The protest saw participation from prominent leaders including Mallikarjun Kharge, Supriya Sule, Dharmendra Yadav, Sudama Prasad, T Sumathy, and Mahua Maji, among others. Protest at Parliament’s Makar Dwar The MPs gathered near the Makar Dwar of Parliament, holding a large banner reading “Empty Cylinders, Empty Promises” and raising slogans against the government. The demonstration highlighted growing political tensions over fuel supply concerns, particularly in the backdrop of global disruptions triggered by the ongoing West Asia conflict. Opposition Alleges Widespread LPG Shortage Leaders from various opposition parties claimed that citizens across the country are facing difficulties in accessing LPG cylinders. Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy alleged that the government had failed to manage the situation effectively, stating that people are struggling due to shortages and calling for immediate resolution. Similarly, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari claimed that shortages were visible across both rural and urban areas, especially during recent festive periods, and said the opposition would continue to raise the issue in Parliament. Sanjay Raut Questions Government’s Global Strategy Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut also criticised the government, questioning India’s role in the ongoing global crisis. He urged the Prime Minister to engage more with the opposition and consider their suggestions on handling the situation. Govt Steps Up Measures to Stabilise Supply The protest comes at a time when the government has taken steps to manage LPG supply amid global uncertainties. Authorities have prioritised the allocation of domestically produced natural gas for LPG production, along with compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped gas supply. Efforts are also underway to streamline distribution by accelerating city gas projects and increasing allocation of commercial LPG to essential sectors. West Asia Conflict Impacts Energy Markets The concerns arise against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in West Asia, now in its fourth week, which has disrupted global trade routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz. The crisis escalated following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on February 28. Iran’s subsequent retaliatory actions have further impacted shipping routes and energy markets. Political Row Intensifies Over Energy Availability While the opposition continues to allege shortages and mismanagement, the government has repeatedly maintained that there is no shortage of LPG and that adequate stocks are available across the country. (With inputs from Agencies)
25 March,2026 01:25 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Congress has received final eviction notices from the Estate Department to vacate its long-held offices at Akbar Road and Raisina Road in Lutyens’ Delhi by March 28, sources told PTI. The development marks a significant moment for the party, which has operated from its Akbar Road headquarters for decades. Deadline Set for Vacating Key Party Offices The notices direct the Congress to vacate its office at 24 Akbar Road as well as the premises at 5 Raisina Road within a short timeframe, sources told PTI. The Akbar Road property has served as the party’s central headquarters since 1978, while the Raisina Road premises house the activities of the Indian Youth Congress. Sources indicated that the notice was delivered only a few days ago, giving the party less than a week to comply. Party Weighs Legal Options Congress leaders have expressed concern over the short notice period, with sources suggesting that the party may approach the courts to challenge the eviction, reported PTI. While there has been no official statement from the party leadership, discussions are underway internally to formulate a strategy in response to the move. New Headquarters at Indira Bhawan The Congress has already constructed a new headquarters, Indira Bhawan, which is expected to serve as its primary office going forward. However, the transition from its historic Akbar Road office carries both symbolic and operational significance for the party. Leaders Question Government’s Intent Congress MP Karti Chidambaram stated that rules should be applied uniformly and not selectively, implying that the party may have been unfairly targeted, reported PTI. The issue has sparked a political debate, with opposition leaders questioning the timing and intent behind the eviction notices. Jairam Ramesh Criticises Govt Over Policy Moves Separately, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticised the Centre over its reported plan to amend the Nari Shakti Vandan Act. He alleged that the government was attempting to divert attention from pressing national issues, including foreign policy challenges and concerns over energy supply amid the ongoing West Asia crisis. Ramesh recalled that the law, passed in 2023, provides for one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, but is linked to the completion of delimitation and census exercises. Political Tensions Escalate The eviction notice and the parallel political criticism highlight growing tensions between the ruling government and the opposition. As the March 28 deadline approaches, the Congress is expected to take a final call on its response, which could include legal recourse and a broader political challenge to the move. (With inputs from PTI)
25 March,2026 01:11 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has dismissed reports claiming changes in LPG refill booking timelines, stating that no such revisions have been made and existing rules remain in place. The clarification comes amid the circulation of misleading information on social media and some reports suggesting new waiting periods for LPG refills, which triggered confusion among consumers. No Change in LPG Refill Booking Rules In an official statement, the Ministry categorically denied claims that refill timelines had been altered for different categories of consumers. It reiterated that the current system continues unchanged. As per existing norms, LPG refill booking timelines remain at 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural areas, regardless of the type of connection. The Ministry urged citizens not to believe or share unverified information that could lead to unnecessary concern. Govt Warns Against Panic Booking Authorities noted that misinformation had led to instances of panic booking in certain regions. The government appealed to consumers to avoid such practices, emphasising that there is no shortage of LPG supply in the country. Officials confirmed that adequate stocks are available and distribution systems are functioning normally across India. Sufficient Fuel Stocks, Refineries Operating at Full Capacity Reassuring the public, senior officials stated that all refineries are currently operating at high capacity with sufficient crude oil inventories. There is also adequate availability of petrol and diesel across the country. The government highlighted that domestic LPG production has been stepped up to meet demand, especially in the wake of global uncertainties arising from the West Asia conflict. No Supply Disruptions Despite Global Tensions While acknowledging that geopolitical developments have impacted global supply chains, officials clarified that India has managed to maintain stable fuel availability. They confirmed that multiple LPG cargo shipments are already lined up, and there have been no reports of shortages at LPG distributorships. Deliveries are continuing smoothly despite isolated cases of panic-driven demand spikes. Push for PNG Connections and Clean Energy Access The government is also accelerating the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections. Authorities have directed city gas distribution entities to provide PNG access to institutions such as schools, hostels, community kitchens, and Anganwadi centres within five days where infrastructure is available. Officials noted that around 7,500 new connections were provided in a single day across multiple regions, with nearly 60 lakh households identified as eligible for PNG access. Strict Action Against Black Marketing and Irregularities To ensure market stability, enforcement agencies have intensified action against illegal practices. Thousands of inspections and raids have been conducted across states, leading to the seizure of cylinders, filing of FIRs, and arrests. Oil marketing companies have also issued show-cause notices to distributors found violating norms, with some facing suspension. Govt Reassures Public Amid Misinformation Reiterating its stance, the government emphasised that there is no cause for concern regarding fuel availability. Citizens have been advised to rely only on official sources for updates and avoid spreading rumours. The clarification aims to restore public confidence and ensure smooth functioning of fuel supply systems during a period of heightened global uncertainty. (With inputs from Agencies)
25 March,2026 12:51 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1774428231161_d.png "AAP MLA Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra. File Pic")
-1774425004064_d.png "Representational image")
