Our Bureau
New Delhi
The Centre has withdrawn most emergency restrictions on natural gas supplies after liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments through the Strait of Hormuz resumed, signalling a return to stability in India’s energy supply chain following months of disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued a notification amending the Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026, removing emergency provisions that had empowered the government to prioritise domestic gas and imported LNG supplies for critical sectors during the crisis. The decision follows a ceasefire in the region and the restoration of normal maritime traffic through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
The emergency measures were introduced in March after geopolitical tensions disrupted LNG cargo movement through the Hormuz Strait, a vital route that carries nearly one-fifth of global LNG trade. The restrictions enabled authorities to divert gas supplies from non-priority industries to essential users such as fertiliser plants, city gas distribution networks, power producers and refineries to prevent shortages.
Officials said energy flows from the Middle East have now largely normalised, allowing the government to restore standard gas allocation mechanisms. The rollback is expected to ease operational constraints on industrial consumers that had faced reduced gas supplies under the emergency regime.
India imports a significant share of its LNG requirements, making uninterrupted access through the Strait of Hormuz crucial for energy security. Analysts said the government’s swift withdrawal of emergency controls reflects confidence in the stabilising regional situation while highlighting the importance of diversified energy sourcing and strategic preparedness against future geopolitical disruptions. Although immediate supply concerns have eased, experts caution that developments in West Asia will continue to be closely monitored given their potential impact on global energy markets and India’s import-dependent gas sector.
