Indian Government Takes Major Steps Amid West Asia Crisis, Focuses on Air Services and Fuel Supply

New Delhi, June 4: In response to the ongoing crisis in West Asia, the Indian government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the stability of air services and fuel supply. During an inter-ministerial press briefing, officials from the Civil Aviation, Petroleum, External Affairs, and Shipping ministries outlined their efforts regarding the recent developments in the region.

The government clarified that there is sufficient availability of petrol, diesel, LPG, and natural gas in the country, urging citizens not to panic or engage in unnecessary buying.

Rohit Raj, Director of the Civil Aviation Ministry, announced that the central cabinet has approved a mechanism for price stabilization support of up to ₹10,000 crore for Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). This initiative aims to maintain smooth air services despite global fuel price volatility and to protect passengers from sudden fare increases. This arrangement will be temporary, lasting for three years or until the fund is adjusted.

Meanwhile, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Petroleum Ministry, stated that all refineries in the country are operating normally. Over the past three days, 1.43 crore domestic LPG cylinders have been distributed. To curb black marketing of petrol and diesel, raids are being conducted nationwide, resulting in multiple FIRs and actions against several dealers.

Asim Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) in the External Affairs Ministry, emphasized that the safety of Indian citizens in the West Asia region is the highest priority. Indian embassies in various countries are providing 24-hour assistance services. So far, 25,557 Indians have been safely evacuated from Iran. Tragically, one Indian citizen lost their life in an attack at Kuwait Airport, while 13 others sustained injuries.

The Director of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways reported that all Indian sailors in the region are safe, and no unpleasant incidents have occurred involving Indian vessels. To date, 3,474 Indian sailors have been safely brought back home. The government has urged citizens to avoid rumors and rely solely on official sources for information.

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