India has launched a new incentive scheme to accelerate domestic PNG connections, reduce cooking fuel costs and expand cleaner household energy access nationwide.

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• India launched the Incentive Scheme for Promotion of Domestic PNG Connections on August 18, 2026, effective nationwide from September 1.
• The scheme aims to increase active billed domestic PNG connections by encouraging gas distribution companies to expand household pipeline networks.
• India already has 1.74 crore domestic PNG connections, creating a substantial foundation for accelerating clean cooking fuel adoption across households.
• Eligible companies can receive additional domestic APM gas allocation for every incremental household connection achieved beyond prescribed geographical area thresholds.
• The incentive is expected to reduce connection investment payback periods from approximately 10 years to nearly three years.
• PNG provides continuous pipeline supply, metered billing, convenient usage and reduced dependence on cylinder booking, transportation and storage requirements.
• Natural gas burns comparatively cleaner than conventional fuels, supporting improved household air quality while contributing towards lower carbon emissions.
• Government measures include accelerated pipeline approvals, standardised Right-of-Way charges, reduced taxes and streamlined permissions for infrastructure expansion.
• The National PNG Drive 2.0 focused on accelerating household connections, while a unified digital registration portal is being developed.
• Several states have been encouraged to reduce Value Added Tax on natural gas to 5 percent, supporting greater consumer affordability.
• The initiative aims to strengthen City Gas Distribution networks while improving commercial viability for companies expanding PNG access into new areas.
• Expanding PNG infrastructure supports India’s cleaner-energy transition by providing households with safer, affordable, convenient and continuous cooking fuel.