India, Oct. 1 -- The Centre has launched National PNG Drive 3.0 to accelerate the adoption of piped natural gas (PNG) and expand the role of natural gas in India's primary energy mix. Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launched the drive on Thursday during an event marking the 20th Foundation Day of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB). The campaign will run from October 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027, with participation from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, PNGRB, city gas distribution entities, public sector oil marketing companies and other stakeholders.

The initiative will focus on activating dormant PNG connections, maximising existing city gas distribution networks and expanding coverage i...