Letters to The Editor — March 13, 2026

India’s LPG crunch

Disruptions in global energy supplies due to the United States-Israel-Iran conflict have exposed India’s heavy dependence on imported crude oil. Given the seriousness of the situation, the government has invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act and rationed supplies. Small businesses, hotels, restaurants and the hospitality sector are already feeling the impact. If the disruption continues, industries may face shutdowns, leading to job losses. While Parliament is in session, the government should urgently convene an all-party meeting to brief political leaders on the real situation. Transparency and collective responsibility are essential when the livelihoods of 140 crore Indians are at stake.

S.K. Khosla,

Chandigarh

In these days of a largely man-made LPG crisis, it is important to revisit initiatives such as gobar gas plants that generate methane from cow dung, kitchen waste and other crop residues. Apart from producing fuel, these systems also provide the added benefit of supplying high-quality organic manure. With the easy availability of LPG cylinders in the past, many innovative forms of gobar gas plants gradually fell out of use. However, in the present situation, these sustainable and self-reliant energy solutions have, once again, become very relevant.

Dr. V. Purushothaman,

Chennai

The Prime Minister has urged people not to panic while petroleum officials say the country has adequate oil and gas stocks. Yet, the situation across the country suggests otherwise. At a time like this, parliamentary responsibility should take precedence over political campaigning. The nation expects the Prime Minister to stand with the people and offer his clear reassurance in this hour of uncertainty.

S.V. Venkatakrishnan,

Coimbatore