Question : MARKETING OF KEROSENE LACED WITH IMPORTED MARKERS

(a) whether the Government has launched marketing of kerosene laced with imported markers to check diversion of the subsidized fuel for adulteration of motor fuels and industrial solvents;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) the names of the country from where this marker is being imported;

(d) the annual expenditure likely to be incurred thereon;

(e) the other options adopted by the Government to check the adulteration; and

(f) the effective steps taken by the Government to implement these measures?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS (SHRI JITIN PRASADA)

(a) & (b): No, Madam. The Government has not launched any new Marker System to check adulteration in the country since the earlier marker system was discontinued on 31st December, 2008.

(c) & (d): Do not arise in view of (a) and (b) above.

(e) & (f): In order to check adulteration, the Government has taken a number of initiatives viz., Automation of Retail Outlets, Third party certification of Retail Outlets, Monitoring of movement of tank trucks through Global Positioning System (GPS), Smart Card Scheme etc.

Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) undertake regular and surprise inspections of Retail Outlets and also take action under 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.