India Eases Kerosene Norms for Subsidized Distribution

The Indian government has temporarily relaxed petroleum safety and licensing norms to enable the distribution of subsidized kerosene through select fuel stations in 21 states and union territories, including areas previously declared kerosene-free, in response to energy supply disruptions from the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued a gazette notification on March 29 authorizing public sector oil marketing companies to allocate public distribution system kerosene for household cooking and lighting needs. This measure affects regions such as Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, where kerosene had been phased out in favor of liquefied petroleum gas under long-term clean energy initiatives. Officials stated that the relaxations aim to expedite storage, transportation, and last-mile delivery amid global supply chain pressures.

Under the new provisions, state governments and union territory administrations must identify up to two designated service stations per district, preferably company-owned and operated by public sector undertakings. Each outlet may store up to 5,000 liters of...