The central government has introduced a new Incentive Scheme for Promotion of Domestic PNG Connections, aimed at encouraging more households to switch to piped natural gas (PNG) for cooking.
The scheme became effective from September 1, 2026, and is designed to accelerate the expansion of active domestic PNG connections across the country. The government says the initiative will encourage gas distribution companies to activate unused connections and expand PNG networks to new areas.
Why Is the Government Promoting PNG?
Piped natural gas offers households an alternative to conventional LPG cylinders. It is supplied directly through a pipeline, meaning consumers do not need to repeatedly order, receive and store cylinders at home.
The government is also promoting PNG as a cleaner, safer and more convenient cooking fuel.
India currently has around 1.74 crore domestic PNG connections, and the new incentive scheme aims to increase the number of households actively using the network.
What Is the New Scheme?
Under the scheme, the government is providing incentives to City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies to increase the number of active domestic PNG connections.
The focus is not only on providing new connections but also on converting existing unbilled or inactive connections into working connections.
This could help households that already have access to PNG infrastructure but have not yet started using the service.
A New Digital Portal Is Also Being Developed
The government is working on a Unified PNG Registration Portal, which is intended to provide a single-window system for consumers.
The proposed platform will make it easier for households to apply for new PNG connections and track their applications digitally.
This could reduce the need for consumers to visit gas distribution offices repeatedly for registration and status updates.
What About LPG Cylinders?
The government has also announced National PNG Drive 2.0, which includes measures such as awareness campaigns, household notices and initiatives to encourage housing societies using LPG to shift to PNG.
The programme also includes a portal for consumers who want to surrender their LPG cylinders as part of the transition.
However, households should check the applicable rules and availability of PNG infrastructure in their area before making any decision to switch fuels.
PNG Could Become More Affordable in Some States
The government is encouraging states to reduce VAT on natural gas to 5%, which could make PNG more affordable for consumers.
Several states have already reduced VAT on natural gas, while further rationalisation is being encouraged.
What Should Households Do?
If PNG infrastructure is available in your locality, you can check with the local City Gas Distribution company about the availability of a domestic connection.
Consumers should compare the applicable connection charges, gas tariff, security deposit and other conditions before switching from LPG.
The government's new scheme is primarily aimed at expanding the PNG network and increasing active connections. It does not mean that every household will automatically receive a free PNG connection.
Why This Scheme Matters
With 1.74 crore domestic PNG connections already in the country, the government is now focusing on expanding usage and bringing piped cooking gas to more households.
If the initiative succeeds, more families could eventually have access to a continuous supply of cooking gas without depending on regular LPG-cylinder deliveries.
