EconomyMonday, 6 July 2026·The Hindu - Economy
Gas curbs lifted after West Asia crisis: Natural gas supply rules, priority sectors and LNG context
On 4 July 2026, the Centre lifted emergency natural-gas curbs and restored priority-based supply after the West Asia crisis eased.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On July 4, 2026, the Union government lifted emergency curbs on natural gas supply by amending the Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026, after citing ceasefire talks and the reopening of sea traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
Key specifics
- On March 12, 2026, Hardeep Singh Puri told Parliament about the “immediate priority sequence” for gas allocation.
- Domestic piped gas to homes and CNG for vehicles received 100% supply, with no cuts, under the priority list.
- Industrial and manufacturing consumers were allowed up to 80% of their previous six-month average supply.
- Fertilizer plants were allotted up to 70% supply to protect the agricultural input chain before the sowing season.
- On June 25, 2026, the Petroleum Ministry restored industrial and commercial LPG supply to pre-West Asia crisis levels.
Exam lens
Question type: Economy and policy sequence, gas allocation and energy security. Key facts: July 4, 2026, Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026, Strait of Hormuz, 100% for domestic piped gas and CNG, 80% for industry, 70% for fertilizer. TNPSC may ask which sectors got priority and why LNG/LPG curbs were eased.