Upcoming Changes in LPG Cylinder Booking Rules Expected in May 2026

New Delhi. As May approaches, significant changes in the LPG cylinder booking regulations are anticipated. The ongoing conflict in Asia, which began at the end of February, has led to a crisis in the global energy sector, resulting in supply shortages, delivery delays, and rising prices.

This situation has compelled several countries, including India, to implement crucial regulations to address the LPG supply crisis. Despite the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, various changes related to gas cylinders are expected in May 2026.

According to reports, oil marketing companies (OMCs) such as Indian Oil, BPCL, and HPCL are currently discussing new regulations concerning the delivery of LPG cylinders. An announcement is expected in May 2026, which will alter the existing monthly booking and delivery process for LPG.

There is also a strong expectation that LPG prices will be revised across India starting May 1, 2026. Since the onset of the Iran conflict, Indian oil companies have increased the prices of 14.2 kg LPG cylinders by ₹60 nationwide. In fact, the prices of 19 kg LPG cylinders have seen three hikes within just one month.

In April 2026, the prices of 19 kg LPG cylinders in metropolitan areas rose by ₹196 to ₹218. This increase followed a price hike of ₹114.5 per cylinder on March 7, which came after an earlier increase of ₹28 to ₹31 on March 1, 2026.

Potential Permanent OTP-Based Delivery System
Additionally, it is anticipated that companies may modify the 'lock-in period' for booking LPG cylinders, which is currently set at 25 days. There are also expectations for the OTP-based delivery system to become a permanent feature.

According to the latest updates from the government, despite the current geopolitical situation, it has ensured a 100% supply of domestic LPG, PNG, and CNG. Online LPG cylinder bookings have surged by nearly 98%, while delivery authentication codes have been implemented to prevent misuse, achieving a 94% increase in effectiveness.

Commercial LPG is prioritized for hospitals and educational institutions, along with sectors such as pharmaceuticals, steel, automobiles, seeds, and agriculture. Furthermore, the supply of 5 kg FTL has been doubled for migrant workers.

Current LPG Booking Rules: 45 Days and 25 Days
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has already implemented several measures to improve both supply and demand. These include increasing refinery production, extending the booking interval in urban areas from 21 to 25 days, and prioritizing various sectors for supply.

Biometric Authentication for LPG Connections
The government has mandated biometric authentication for beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana. According to new directives, the ministry clarified that eKYC is required for LPG consumers who have not yet completed the process.

Gas Cylinder Connections to be Cut After Three Months
Amid disruptions in oil and gas supply, the government has prioritized the transition from LPG to PNG. Commercial LPG consumers residing in major cities and urban areas are being encouraged to apply for PNG connections through emails, letters, or customer portals of city gas distribution companies.

It is also important to note that the government has already prohibited PNG consumers from surrendering their domestic LPG connections and has barred them from applying for new LPG connections.