India Shifts Cooking Gas Focus to Piped Natural Gas Amid Global Crises

The Indian government has introduced new rules to promote the adoption of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for household cooking, shifting away from LPG cylinders. The Petroleum Ministry has requested states and union territories to provide administrative assistance at the district level to maximize PNG connections in areas where it's available.

A nodal officer will be appointed in each district to collaborate with gas distribution and oil companies to promote this shift. The government views PNG as a relatively safe, clean, and convenient energy source that can alleviate logistical challenges tied to LPG distribution and enhance the efficiency of existing City Gas Distribution (CGD) infrastructure.

The recent crisis in West Asia has been a key factor driving the government's initiative. India's LPG supply chain faced significant strain during the crisis due to disruptions in imports from countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait.

Domestic PNG supplies proved more resilient during the crisis, prompting the government to consider expanding the domestic LPG piped network to enhance energy security. A new Gas Distribution and LPG Control Order of 2026 has been enacted, prohibiting possession of both LPG and PNG connections in areas where PNG is accessible.

A PCC (PNG Coordination Committee) will be established in each geographic area to identify eligible residences and housing societies for PNG connections. The district administration will help secure necessary permissions from RWAs and housing societies for pipeline installation and coordinate efforts between LPG distributors and PNG companies.