Context
The conflict in West Asia has disrupted global energy supply chains, highlighting India’s growing dependence on LPG imports and increasing the risk of price rises and supply shortages.
Important Data
Domestic LPG Consumers
• 2015 → 1,486 lakh consumers
• 2025 → 3,305 lakh consumers
LPG Imports
• 2011–12 → 5.8 million metric tonnes (MMT)
• 2025–26 → about 18.8 MMT
Domestic LPG Consumption
• 2011–12 → 15.3 MMT
• 2025–26 → about 31 MMT
LNG Imports
• 2011–12 → 13.5 MMT
• 2024–25 → 27 MMT
Import Dependence
• Qatar supplies about 34% of India’s LPG imports.
• Overall dependence on West Asia remains very high, making India vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions.
Why LPG Consumption Increased — Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
Launch • Introduced in 2016.
Ministry • Implemented by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Objective • Provide deposit-free LPG connections to poor households, particularly women.
Implementation • Executed through Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs):
- Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL)
- Bharat Petroleum (BPCL)
- Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL)
• Expanded through Ujjwala 2.0.
Impact
• Promotes clean cooking fuel.
• Reduces indoor air pollution and health risks from traditional biomass fuels.
