As the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict disrupts global energy supplies, Indian households are turning to electric alternatives in droves. Fears of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortages—driven by shipping delays through the Strait of Hormuz—have triggered panic buying of induction cooktops. India, the world’s second-largest LPG importer with around 90% of supplies routed through the conflict-hit Middle East, is seeing tight availability, especially for commercial users like restaurants and hostels. While the government has invoked emergency measures to prioritize household supplies and boost domestic production, uncertainty over prolonged disruptions has pushed many to seek reliable backups.
E-commerce giants are reporting unprecedented surges in sales. Amazon India has seen induction cooktop demand jump more than 30-fold in recent days, with related appliances like rice cookers and electric pressure cookers rising around four times. Flipkart noted sales quadrupling over just 4-5 days, with spikes particularly high in cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Uttar Pradesh. Quick-commerce platforms such as Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart have faced rapid stockouts, and manufacturers like TTK Prestige are ramping up production to meet a threefold demand increase. In local markets, including regions like Aurangabad in Maharashtra, retailers report up to 50% higher interest in electric stoves as families prepare for potential refill delays or price hikes.
Induction cooktops have become a go-to solution due to their efficiency, safety (no open flame), and independence from gas cylinders—they heat compatible magnetic cookware quickly using electricity. However, buyers should ensure stable power access and induction-ready utensils. Experts view this shift as a sign of growing household resilience amid geopolitical energy risks, even as authorities assure no major domestic crisis and some shipments ease pressure. With stocks fluctuating rapidly, check platforms promptly if considering a purchase—many models are selling out fast amid the ongoing crisis.