The Government of Tamil Nadu convened a high-level meeting at the Secretariat with oil companies, energy producers and industry stakeholders to review the impact of LPG shortages arising from the current geopolitical developmentsand to explore possible alternative energy solutions.

On behalf of SIHRA, the following representatives participated in the meeting:
•⁠ ⁠Mr. T. Natarajan, Hon. Secretary
•⁠ ⁠Mr. D. Srinivasan, Vice President
•⁠ ⁠Mr. Venkata Subbu, EC Member
•⁠ ⁠Mr. R. Srinivasan, EC Member
•⁠ ⁠Mr. Sundar Singaram, Director – Operations

The meeting was chaired by Thiru R. Sakkarapani, Hon’ble Minister for Food and Civil Supplies, along with Thiru N. Muruganandam, Chief Secretary, and was attended by several senior secretaries and government officials.

During the meeting, the oil companies informed that they currently have LPG stock for approximately the next three weeks, but had been instructed to halt commercial LPG supplies due to the prioritisation of domestic LPG requirements.

Members may note that earlier today, based on the representations made by the hospitality industry through national associations including FHRAI and SIHRA, the Government of India has agreed to allocate 20% of LPG production for commercial consumption, which is expected to provide some relief to the sector.

During the discussions, each industry stakeholder explained the challenges arising from the LPG shortage. On behalf of SIHRA, our representatives presented a detailed report highlighting the serious operational impact on hotels, restaurants and food service establishments. The Hon’ble Minister and the Chief Secretary listened attentively to the concerns raised and assured that the facts and issues highlighted by the industry will be conveyed to the Government of India.

The Government of Tamil Nadu also expressed its willingness to support the industry in all possible ways during this period. In this regard, the authorities indicated that the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board may consider relaxing certain norms to facilitate the temporary use of firewood and other alternative energy sources, wherever feasible.

SIHRA will continue to remain actively engaged with both the State Government and the Government of India and will keep members informed of further developments.