Amid rising tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict involving Iran, concerns over fuel supplies have triggered an LPG shortage scare in India, leading to panic buying of alternative cooking appliances such as induction cooktops.

Across major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata, quick commerce platforms have reported induction cooktops going out of stock as households rush to secure electric cooking alternatives.

The surge in demand comes as LPG prices rise and refill bookings face delays, creating anxiety among consumers. Even though the government has reassured citizens that there is no major supply crisis and domestic production has been increased, panic buying has continued in several regions.

Retailers say they have witnessed an unprecedented spike in demand. Some stores in Delhi and Mumbai reported selling dozens of induction cooktops in a single day, while budget models have already sold out in several neighbourhoods.

The shortage has also extended to induction-compatible utensils such as specialised pots and pans required for electric cooking. Many households are purchasing these items alongside induction stoves in anticipation of potential cooking gas shortages.

The government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to safeguard cooking gas supplies and prevent hoarding. However, the uncertainty has also affected small food vendors, many of whom rely on LPG cylinders bought through informal markets where prices have surged sharply.

Experts warn that prolonged disruption in global oil and gas supply chains could push prices higher and create further pressure on domestic fuel availability.