Jharkhand to supply Kerosene via Ration Cards amid fuel crisis

Mail News Service

Ranchi, March 20: In a significant policy decision aimed at cushioning the impact of the ongoing global fuel disruption, the Jharkhand government has announced the distribution of kerosene oil through the Public Distribution System (PDS), offering much-needed relief to rural households grappling with cooking fuel shortages.
The move comes against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions in Gulf nations, which have adversely affected the global supply chain of petroleum products.
With concerns mounting over the availability of LPG and other fuels, both the Centre and the state government have stepped in to ensure that kitchens across Jharkhand do not go cold.
Under the new arrangement, beneficiaries holding ration cards will be eligible to purchase kerosene oil at an approximate rate of Rs 70 per litre.
The distribution will follow a “first come, first served” basis through fair price shops, prompting authorities to urge residents—especially in rural areas—to make necessary arrangements, including kerosene-operated stoves.
As per directives issued by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, a total allocation of 972,000 litres of kerosene has been sanctioned for Jharkhand. The state government has subsequently distributed quotas district-wise to ensure equitable access.
Notably, districts with higher rural populations such as Ranchi (rural), East Singhbhum (rural), Dhanbad (rural), Bokaro, and Giridih have received larger allocations. For instance, Ranchi rural will receive 84,000 litres, while East Singhbhum rural has been allotted 72,000 litres. Dhanbad district, including both urban and rural segments, is set to receive a combined allocation of 72,000 litres.
Officials clarified that PDS dealers must submit their demand to the respective District Supply Offices and deposit the requisite amount to procure kerosene stocks. The initiative aims to ensure uninterrupted cooking and basic lighting facilities, particularly in remote and underserved regions.
This proactive step underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding essential household needs during a period of global uncertainty, while also reviving kerosene as a critical fallback fuel for vulnerable communities.