The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has barred households with piped natural gas (PNG) connections from retaining domestic LPG cylinders.
Consumers holding both PNG and LPG must surrender their LPG connections immediately, and refills will no longer be permitted.
The ministry issued the notification under the Essential Commodities Act, clarifying that the rule will take effect once published in the official gazette. Officials emphasised that the move aims to streamline distribution and prevent duplication of subsidies.
The announcement comes amid global energy concerns following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to conflict in West Asia. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the ministry, said India depends on imports for 60% of its LPG requirement, with 90% of those imports routed through the Gulf. Refineries have been asked to maximise LPG production, and priority has been given to household supply.
Sharma added that crude oil supplies remain secure, with 70% now sourced outside the Gulf compared to 55% earlier. Two crude cargoes are currently en route to India, and refineries are operating at maximum capacity.
Meanwhile, households across major cities are turning to electric cooking appliances such as induction cooktops, kettles, and microwaves. Retailers and e-commerce platforms report a surge in demand, with induction cooktops witnessing up to 25 times higher sales compared to usual levels.
