Energy Crisis: Government Invokes Essential Commodities Act; Refill Gap Extended to 25 Days

In a major move to stabilize the domestic energy market amid the escalating US-Iran conflict, the Indian government on March 10, 2026, invoked the Essential Commodities (EC) Act. The decision aims to prioritize household cooking gas (LPG) and critical industries as the hospitality sector faces a severe shortage of commercial cylinders.

Prioritizing the Kitchen: New LPG & Gas Regulations

The government has introduced the Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order 2026 to manage the nation’s hydrocarbon pool. Key measures include:

• Production Boost: Refineries and petrochemical units have been ordered to divert hydrocarbon streams to maximize LPG production.
• Refill Waiting Period: The minimum gap for booking a domestic LPG refill has been increased from 21 to 25 days. This is a tactical move to curb “panic booking,” which saw a recent surge of 15-20% in demand.
• Sector-Wise Priority: Under the new mandate, natural gas and LPG will be prioritized for:
  1. Domestic PNG and LPG production.
  2. CNG for transport.
  3. Fertilizer plants and the tea industry.

Impact on Fuel Prices and Stocks

Despite the volatility in the Middle East, a senior official confirmed that petrol and diesel prices will not be hiked for now.

• Price Absorption: Oil marketing companies (IOC, BPCL, HPCL) are expected to absorb current cost pressures.
• National Reserves: Parliament was informed that India holds a 74-day strategic reserve of crude oil and petroleum products, providing a significant cushion against the ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

National News Highlights: March 11, 2026

As the energy crisis unfolds, several other major stories dominated the headlines today:

• Judicial Landmark: The Supreme Court granted a historic plea for passive euthanasia for Harish Rana, a man in a vegetative state for 13 years.
• NCERT Shake-up: The SC ordered the removal of three NCERT members, including Prof. Michel Danino, following the controversy over a chapter on “judicial corruption.”
• Telecom “Scam” Claim: AAP MP Raghav Chadha slammed the 28-day recharge cycle in the Rajya Sabha, arguing it forces a 13th month of payment from consumers.
• Entertainment: The trailer for Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi’s Ek Din (releasing May 1) was released, marking a major debut for the South Indian star.