Whether it's Indane, HP, or Bharat Gas, all government oil marketing companies have imposed a moratorium on new LPG connections. This raises the question of what other, better options are available for the kitchen.
LPG Gas Cylinder New Connection
In light of the escalating tensions between the US and Iran, oil marketing companies (OMCs) have taken a significant decision to ban new LPG cylinder connections in the first quarter of 2026. Nearly seven months have passed since the war between the two countries began, but uncertainty regarding energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz remains.
The situation is such that a large number of people in the country are no longer able to apply for a 14.2 kg domestic gas cylinder. The question now arises: when will it be possible to apply for a new LPG connection again? In the meantime, what other options are available for cooking in the kitchen?
LPG production is increasing in the country
According to reports, several states, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai, have banned new LPG connections for 14.2-kilogram domestic cylinders from March 2026. The war that broke out in West Asia in late February has severely impacted global oil and gas supplies. 20% of the world's energy transportation takes place through this shipping route.
However, there is some solace in the fact that efforts are being made to increase LPG production in the country. According to reports last month, Indian refiners are increasing LPG production. This production has reached an average of 44,000 tons per day, which is approximately 20% higher than the average production in August.
Will the new connection start from now?
However, people are eagerly awaiting the launch of new LPG connections. While the government hasn't yet released any official information regarding this, you still have a few options available for cooking comfortably. These include 5 kg and 10 kg LPG cylinders and PNG.
5 kg small cylinder
5-kg "Chhotu" cooking gas cylinders are readily available in the market. You can purchase them from any LPG distributor under the names Indane Chhotu, Bharat Gas Mini, or HP Gas Appu. There's no need to provide Aadhaar card, PAN card, or deposit. There's no hassle of providing address proof or completing a lengthy application process. Most importantly, 5-kg Free-Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders can be refilled as many times as desired throughout the year, and each refill can take less than 10 minutes.
10 kg cylinder
State-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) have also promoted 10-kg gas cylinders through quick-service platforms like Swiggy Instamart. Indian Oil has launched 'Indane XTRALITE', which is up to 50% lighter than traditional iron cylinders. Its body is transparent because it is made of fiberglass composite material (HDPE). The starting price for a new connection of this 10-kg composite cylinder from IndianOil is ₹4,853, and refilling will cost ₹1,667.
PNG
Piped natural gas (PNG) is another excellent option for cooking in the kitchen, which is being heavily promoted by the government these days. Applying for it is also easy. You can apply for a new PNG connection by visiting the websites of Indian Oil, HPCL, and BPCL. You can also switch from LPG to PNG easily by contacting your distributor.
