The central government has issued significant directives regarding cooking gas (LPG) cylinders in the country. The Petroleum Ministry has directed all states and union territories to rapidly promote the use of pipeline-supplied natural gas (PNG) instead of LPG cylinders. The government has clarified that the goal behind this is to reduce dependence on LPG and make the gas supply system more secure and digital.

The central government's directives state that in areas where PNG connections have been provided and citizens are still using LPG gas, their LPG connections may be cancelled. This could cause consumers to face difficulties in using the gas. These directives are reportedly issued under the new LPG Control Order 2026 and the Natural Gas Distribution Order 2026. According to these directives, holding both PNG and LPG connections simultaneously is prohibited. Therefore, such consumers will be required to surrender their LPG cylinder connections.

Do I need to take a PNG connection now?

Petroleum Secretary Neeraj Mittal stated in a letter to the states that the rules for switching from LPG to PNG have been tightened. Consumers in societies or areas with PNG networks will be issued notices. If a consumer does not receive a PNG connection within the stipulated time, their LPG cylinder connection may be automatically cancelled.

Impact of the Middle East Crisis

The situation in the Middle East remains tense due to the conflict between the US and Iran. Both countries are making claims and counterclaims over the Strait of Hormuz. This is affecting ships carrying oil and gas from the Middle East to Asia via Hormuz. This is also likely to impact gas supplies. Therefore, India is now prioritizing the use of PNG to reduce its dependence on LPG.

PC: Rochak Khabre