PANAJI
Despite a temporary policy window opened by the Centre to reintroduce kerosene supply across the country, the Goa government is not actively considering procuring or distributing the fuel, citing a stable and sufficient LPG supply situation in the State.
Goa, which was declared a kerosene-free State in February 2024, has seen no demand for the fuel even during recent concerns over global energy supplies. A senior government official confirmed that the State had initially explored reintroducing kerosene as a stopgap measure but has since decided against it.
“We had initially decided to reintroduce kerosene and had even identified two public distribution systems (PDS) in each taluka for supply to ration card holders. However, with LPG supply now restored and the situation normalised for domestic consumption, there is no immediate need,” the official said.
“Goa was declared kerosene free in February 2024 and since then till date, there has not been a single demand for kerosene supply. Even during the crisis, there was no such demand,” the official added.
The Central Government, through a recent notification, had permitted the temporary distribution of kerosene for up to 60 days across the country, including in 21 States that were earlier declared kerosene-free, such as Goa. The move was aimed at ensuring uninterrupted access to cooking and lighting fuel, especially for vulnerable households, in light of global uncertainties affecting energy supplies.
Under the guidelines, two petrol pumps operated by Public Sector Undertaking Oil Marketing Companies (PSU OMCs) in each district are allowed to stock up to 5,000 litres of kerosene for public distribution. These include outlets run by Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum.
To enhance accessibility, States were also advised to select petrol pumps at the district or taluka level for kerosene supply. However, Goa has opted not to proceed with allocation to the Public Distribution System (PDS) at this stage.
Officials emphasised that the LPG ecosystem in the State remains robust. On average, around 10,000 LPG cylinders are distributed daily based on consumer bookings. Additionally, a buffer stock of 25 days is maintained in urban areas and 45 days in rural regions.
“The LPG companies are receiving daily supplies, and these are being seamlessly passed on to consumers. There is adequate stock, and the situation is fully under control,” the official added.
