India has expanded natural gas pipeline network by over 25,000 km, with more projects underway

India has expanded its operational natural gas pipeline network by over 25,000 km as the country moves towards a fully integrated national gas grid, according to an ANI report citing the year-end release of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The total length of operational pipelines has reached 25,429 kilometres, while construction work is underway on another 10,459 kilometres.

The expansion aims to strengthen energy security and promote the use of clean fuels across all sectors. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board has introduced a “One Nation, One Grid, One Tariff” framework to ensure uniform gas transportation charges across nearly 90% of the pipeline network, reducing regional price disparities, ANI reports.

The report said that ensuring universal access to clean cooking fuel remains a key priority for the government. Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, the number of beneficiaries has reached approximately 10.35 crore by December 1, 2025. To clear the pending applications and move towards saturation, the government has approved the release of 25 lakh additional LPG connections during FY 2025-26, along with simplifying the eligibility process through a single deprivation declaration.

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According to ANI, LPG affordability has been supported through a targeted subsidy of ₹300 per cylinder for eligible beneficiaries, leading to a steady increase in LPG consumption. The ministry also highlighted progress in digital payments at fuel shops, security checks, ethanol blending in petrol and award of new oil and gas exploration blocks.