(a) the total quantum of kerosene imported during the year 2004-05;
(b) whether there is still a shortage of kerosene in the country inspite of its import; and
(c) if so, the details of the steps being taken by the Government to do away with the shortage of kerosene annually?
MINISTER OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS AND PANCHAYATI RAJ (SHRI MANI SHANKAR AIYAR)
(a): During the year 2004-05, the total quantum of kerosene imported was 210.4 Thousand Metric Tonnes (TMT).
(b) and (c): PDS kerosene is allocated to the States/UTs by the Government of India. In terms of the policy in place since 2001-02, PDS kerosene allocations to States/UTs have been reduced after taking into account the number of new LPG connections released to the States/UTs. In addition to PDS kerosene, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) also sell free sale kerosene as per demand. Government have commissioned the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) to conduct a study to ascertain the actual demand for kerosene in different states in the country. Further necessary action in deciding state-wise allocations of PDS kerosene would be taken after receiving this study report.