Govt doubles states' quota of 5 kg LPG cylinders meant for migrant workers

In an order issued on April 6, the government said the daily quantity of 5 kg free trade LPG (FTL) cylinders available for distribution to migrant labourers will be doubled, based on the average daily number of cylinders supplied on March 2 and 3, 2026.

In Short

• Centre permits doubling of 5 kg LPG cylinders for migrant workers
• States get flexibility beyond earlier 20% LPG supply cap
• Move aims to help migrant workers facing shortages and rising costs

The government has allowed states to double the daily allocation of 5 kg LPG cylinders for migrant workers, in a move aimed at easing fuel access amid disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict.

In an order issued on April 6, the government said the daily quantity of 5 kg free trade LPG (FTL) cylinders available for distribution to migrant labourers will be doubled, based on the average daily number of cylinders supplied on March 2 and 3, 2026.

The increase will apply beyond the earlier limit of 20% specified in a March 21 directive.

The additional cylinders will be placed at the disposal of state governments and their food or civil supplies departments for distribution only to migrant labourers, with support from public sector oil marketing companies.

The decision comes against the backdrop of an LPG supply crunch in parts of the country, triggered by disruptions in global energy supply chains due to the West Asia war.

India depends heavily on imports for LPG, and the ongoing conflict has led to delays in supply and increased volatility in availability.

In recent weeks, the shortage has begun to affect migrant workers the most. In several cities, workers have struggled to access affordable cooking fuel, with delays in refills and rising prices in informal markets.

Many have been forced to switch to alternatives such as firewood, while others have started returning to their hometowns as basic living costs rise.

Industries that rely on migrant labour have also flagged disruptions, as fuel shortages affect canteen services and daily living conditions, making it harder to retain workers.

The government has maintained that overall LPG supplies remain stable and has been taking steps to manage distribution, including prioritising essential consumption, increasing monitoring to prevent hoarding, and expanding access to smaller cylinders for vulnerable groups.

The latest move to increase the daily allocation of 5 kg cylinders is intended to improve last-mile availability for migrant workers, who often rely on these smaller, more portable cylinders due to lower costs and fewer documentation requirements.

While the higher allocation gives states more flexibility to respond to demand, its impact will depend on how effectively the additional supply is distributed on the ground and whether it can keep pace with ongoing demand pressures.

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