The government will increase natural gas supply to fertiliser plants and key sectors from April 6, 2026, as part of a broader effort to ensure energy stability amid the evolving situation in West AsiaThe Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in a statement issued on Sunday, April 5, said gas availability for fertiliser units will be raised to around 90% of their average consumption over the past six months, up from the current supply levels of about 70–75%.
The increase, backed by available domestic inventory and scheduled LNG cargo arrivals, is aimed at ensuring a steady feedstock supply to urea plants ahead of key agricultural demand.
In addition, the government will enhance gas supply by a further 10% to other industrial and commercial sectors, including those connected through City Gas Distribution (CGD) networks, effective April 6.Focus on fertiliser output and industrial continuityThe move is expected to support fertiliser production and maintain industrial activity at a time when global energy markets remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions.Fertiliser plants are among the largest consumers of natural gas in India, and higher supply levels are likely to help stabilise urea output and supply chains.Fuel duty cut to cushion consumersAs part of wider measures, the government has reduced excise duty by ₹10 per litre on petrol and diesel to shield consumers from rising global crude prices.It has also imposed an export levy on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) to ensure adequate domestic availability. Retail fuel prices remain unchanged.LPG supply stable; small cylinder push underwayThe government said LPG supplies remain stable across the country with no reported shortages, even as steps have been taken to improve availability and curb hoarding.Efforts include scaling up the availability of smaller 5-kg cylinders and tightening enforcement against black marketing to ensure smooth distribution.Push for PNG adoption and gas infrastructureThe government has asked CGD companies to prioritise piped natural gas (PNG) connections for commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels and canteens to reduce dependence on LPG.Companies, including Indraprastha Gas Ltd, Mahanagar Gas Ltd, GAIL Gas and BPCL, have offered incentives to accelerate PNG adoption.In a key policy move, the Centre has also notified a new framework under the Essential Commodities Act to fast-track pipeline expansion and CGD infrastructure, along with an accelerated approval mechanism for projects.Supply chain and maritime operations remain stableThe government said there has been no disruption to shipping or port operations, with Indian ports functioning normally and no congestion reported.Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers in the Gulf region are being closely monitored, ensuring continuity of crude and LNG supply chains.Advisory to citizensThe government has urged citizens to avoid panic buying of fuel and LPG, conserve energy, and rely only on official information to counter misinformation.West Asia situationThe measures come amid ongoing tensions in West Asia, which have impacted global energy markets and raised concerns around key transit routes.Despite the uncertainty, the government said India’s energy supply system remains stable, supported by coordinated action across ministries and states.
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