India has ensured 100% supply of compressed natural gas (CNG) for transportation, providing stability to consumers nationwide. Industrial and commercial users connected to the gas grid are receiving gas supply equivalent to 80% of their average consumption. The government has directed city gas distribution (CGD) companies to prioritize providing PNG (piped natural gas) connections to commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels, and canteens across all gas zones.
Ongoing instability in the Gulf region has affected global gas supply. Recent news reports indicate that Iran carried out an airstrike on one of Qatar’s largest gas production areas, raising concerns about potential impacts on India’s gas supply. The Indian government has made strategic allocation decisions and assured consumers that domestic supply will continue uninterrupted.
On March 18, 2026, the Indian government issued a directive to all states and union territories to provide an additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG. This measure targets regions capable of supporting a long-term transition from LPG to PNG. Domestic LPG cylinder deliveries continue normally, with no reported disruptions for households.
As of March 22, 2026, CNG prices in major cities remain stable, offering some relief to consumers. In Lucknow, CNG is priced at ₹95.75 per kilogram, while Kanpur continues at ₹88.92 per kilogram, unchanged since November 2025, with a one-year increase of approximately ₹6. Merut has seen a slight decline to ₹86.05 per kilogram, and Varanasi remains steady at ₹81.17 per kilogram over the past 12 months.
Madhya Pradesh, CNG prices are consistent: Bhopal ranges between ₹87.75 and ₹88.25 per kilogram, Indore at ₹90.01, Jabalpur at around ₹97.95, and Gwalior at ₹93.55 per kilogram.
Eastern Indian cities also report stable CNG rates, with Patna at ₹84.54, Muzaffarpur at ₹89.00, and Ranchi at ₹87.15 per kilogram. Overall, the CNG market shows no major fluctuations at present.
Continuous Rise in LPG Prices:
Domestic LPG cylinders (14.2 kg) have witnessed a consistent price increase, raising concerns among consumers. In Lucknow, prices have risen to ₹950.50 from ₹890.50 last month. Kanpur now sees ₹928.00, Merut ₹910.50, and Varanasi ₹976.50 per cylinder.
LPG Rates across Madhya Pradesh:
Madhya Pradesh, LPG cylinders cost ₹918.50 in Bhopal, ₹941.00 in Indore, ₹919.50 in Jabalpur, and ₹996.50 in Gwalior.
Impact on Eastern India’s Households:
Eastern India, LPG cylinder rates have surged to ₹1002.50 in Patna, ₹1010.00 in Muzaffarpur, and ₹970.50 in Ranchi. Over the past year, LPG prices have risen steadily, with an increase of nearly ₹60 from April 2025 to March 2026, affecting household budgets significantly.
FAQs:
Q1. Is CNG supply fully available in India?
Yes, the government has ensured 100% CNG supply for transportation.
Q2. Why are LPG prices increasing?
LPG prices are rising due to global market trends and supply factors.
Q3. Are CNG prices stable in 2026?
Yes, CNG prices remain stable in most Indian cities.
Q4. What is PNG and why is it important?
PNG (Piped Natural Gas) is a cleaner and cheaper alternative to LPG for homes and businesses.
Q5. Will LPG prices decrease soon?
There is no official confirmation yet, but prices depend on global fuel trends.
