THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
APRIL 6, 2026
The Food Supplies
& Consumer Welfare Department of Odisha has issued comprehensive guidelines
to ensure smooth distribution of LPG and improve accessibility of 5kg
cylinders, particularly for migrant workers and students. The announcement was
made by Principal Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh at the Lok Seva Bhawan here on
Monday in the presence of senior officials and representatives of Oil Marketing
Companies (OMCs).
Addressing public
concerns, the Principal Secretary clarified that there is no shortage of LPG,
petrol, or diesel in the state. He emphasized that 5kg Free Trade LPG (FTL)
cylinders are being made easily available for students and migrant labourers
through a simplified process that requires only a valid identity proof,
eliminating the need for address verification. OMCs are also organizing special
camps at multiple locations to facilitate on-the-spot connections, ensuring
convenience for individuals without permanent residence documents.
The department
reiterated that regulatory restrictions apply only to illegal vendors in order
to ensure safety and prevent malpractice. Authorities are taking strict action
against unauthorized sellers to safeguard consumer interests.
Singh assured that
domestic LPG supply remains stable, while commercial LPG availability has
already reached 70 per cent of normal levels. Of the available stock, 20 per cent
is being prioritized for essential services including hospitals, schools,
hostels, and Aahar Kendras to maintain uninterrupted public services. ⚡
District Collectors
are heading special monitoring committees to address local logistical challenges
and ensure uninterrupted distribution across Odisha. Enforcement drives have
been intensified to curb black marketing and hoarding, with officials
conducting inspections at 1,633 locations so far. These operations have led to
the seizure of 3,105 cylinders and the registration of 288 cases against
violators.
Providing technical clarity, Kamalsheel, Nodal Officer for the Oil Companies, informed that domestic LPG connections are being processed through e-KYC, further streamlining access. He highlighted that 5kg FTL cylinders serve as the most practical solution for students and migrant workers due to their flexible documentation requirements.
The department has urged consumers to use digital booking platforms for transparency and efficiency. Oil Marketing Companies have confirmed that adequate stock is maintained at dealer and distributor points, reaffirming the government’s commitment to maintaining a robust supply chain and protecting consumers from exploitative practices.
