New Delhi, March 10 -- The Union Government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act (ECA), 1955, to regulate the production, supply, and distribution of natural gas across India, as the ongoing conflict between the US-Israel alliance and Iran continues to threaten energy supply chains in West Asia.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued the order on March 9, stating that the government considers it necessary to regulate production, sector-wise allocation, and distribution of natural gas, including LNG and re-gasified LNG, to ensure equitable distribution and continued availability for priority sectors.

WHAT TRIGGERED THE MOVE

The conflict escalated after Israel and the US attacked Iran on February 28, prompting India to act...