(a) whether the shortage of kerosene is attributed to adulteration of petrol and diesel
with kerosene;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the number of cases of adulteration/ shortage reported during the last three years,
State-wise; and
(d) the steps taken by the Government to check such adulteration?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS (SHRI JITIN PRASADA)
(a) & (b): There is no shortage of Public Distribution System (PDS) Superior Kerosene Oil (SKO) in the country. However, the possibility of diversion of petroleum product like PDS
SKO by some unscrupulous elements to derive monetary benefit cannot be ruled out due to huge
price difference between PDS SKO and petrol /diesel.
(c): Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have reported that 308 cases of
adulteration had come to the notice during last three years. State-wise details of cases
of adulteration and action taken thereon are available with Director (Marketing) of Public
Sector OMCs.
(d): In order to check adulteration, the Government has taken a number of initiative
viz. Automation of Retail Outlets, Third Party Certification of Retail outlets, Monitoring
of movement of tank trucks through Global Positioning System (GPS), etc.
Public Sector OMCs undertake regular and surprise inspections of Retail Outlets
and also take action under Marketing Discipline Guidelines (MDG) and Dealership Agreements
against those indulging in adulteration and malpractices. MDG provide for termination of
dealership in the first instance itself for serious malpractices like adulteration, tampering
of seals, and unauthorized fittings/gears in dispensing units.