The Centre has approved an ad hoc allocation of kerosene oil for distribution through ration depots under the Public Distribution System (PDS) due to the prevailing geopolitical situation affecting global energy supplies. Punjab is set to receive 1,176 kilolitres (KL) of Superior Kerosene Oil (SKO).According to a directive issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on March 12, the additional kerosene has been sanctioned as a precautionary measure to ensure availability of essential fuel for households that still depend on kerosene for cooking and lighting purposes. The kerosene will be distributed through the PDS network, primarily through fair price shops (ration depots), and may also be supplied through retail outlets of public sector oil marketing companies, depending on the distribution mechanism decided by the state government.As per the directive, Punjab has been allocated a one-time quota of 1,176 KL of kerosene for the 2025-26 financial year. The fuel will be made available to beneficiaries through the existing ration distribution network.The Centre has asked states to prioritise rural households, where reliance on kerosene for cooking and lighting may still exist. State governments will determine the scale of distribution, quantity to be supplied, and beneficiaries under the scheme.The directive states that the entire allocated quantity must be lifted within 45 days, and no carry-forward of unlifted stock will be permitted. State authorities have been asked to coordinate with oil marketing companies to ensure timely delivery and distribution of kerosene through the PDS network.The ministry has reiterated that the allocated kerosene must be used strictly for the intended purposes, directing state governments to prohibit the adulteration of fuel with petrol or diesel.Senior officials from Punjab Food and Civil Supplies Department confirmed the move, stating, “Although the Centre has made an ad hoc allocation of kerosene oil due to current energy supply concerns, detailed guidelines for its distribution are yet to be received. It is still unclear whether the kerosene will be distributed through ration depots under the PDS network or through petrol pump outlets of oil marketing companies. There is also no clarity on pricing or the quantity that will be supplied.”