Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis warns against black marketing of fuel; provides diesel supplies for farmers

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. File | Photo credit: PTI

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday (May 23, 2026) said that while fuel was not readily available in rural areas, he directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted supply of diesel to farmers.

Speaking to reporters in Shirdi, Mr. Fadnavis strongly warned against black marketing of fuel in the name of farmers, noting that some parts of the state witnessed a sudden 20-30% increase in sales.

The Chief Minister arrived in the city to attend the inaugural function of the Defense and Aviation Complex. He said district administrations have been instructed to ensure availability of diesel to farmers amid reports of fuel scarcity in rural areas.

“Petrol and diesel are currently not available in the countryside. In this regard, I have issued instructions to all district collectors and divisional commissioners to make diesel available to farmers wherever necessary,” he said.

Maharashtra saw petrol and diesel sales rise around 20% in the first fortnight of May amid panic buying on fears of possible fuel supply disruptions due to the crisis in West Asia.

Mr. Fadnavis, who traveled to the city on the Vande Bharat train, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given a “unique gift” to the country through this train service, which is at par with developed countries around the world.

“I enjoyed the experience very much. I cleaned files and met many people along the way. It was a very different and very good experience,” he said. Speaking about the defense complex at Shirdi, Mr. Fadnavis said the temple town has emerged as a symbol of devotion and strength.

“Shirdi has now emerged as a center of power. It is a matter of great luck. Devotion and power are integrated in Indian spirituality. Only those who are powerful can bring peace. The weak can never bring peace,” he said.

Published – 23 May 2026 13:10 IST