New Delhi, Dec 26 (UNI) The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas recorded significant progress in expanding clean energy access, strengthening fuel infrastructure, and advancing reforms across the oil and gas sector during 2025, according to its Year-End Review released on Friday.
A major highlight of the year was the continued expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), under which beneficiaries providing access to clean cooking fuel rose to about 10.35 crore by December 1, 2025.
To achieve near-universal coverage, the government approved the release of an additional 25 lakh LPG connections during FY 2025–26. The eligibility process was also simplified through a single Deprivation Declaration, making access faster and more inclusive.
Affordability remained a key focus, with PMUY beneficiaries receiving a targeted subsidy of Rs 300 per 14.2 kg LPG cylinder for up to nine refills annually.
This support contributed to a steady rise in LPG usage, with per capita consumption increasing to a pro-rated level of about 4.85 refills per year in FY 2025–26, reflecting sustained adoption of clean cooking fuel.
Consumer safety was reinforced through a nationwide Basic Safety Check campaign, during which more than 12.12 crore free safety inspections were conducted, and over 4.65 crore LPG hoses were replaced at discounted rates.
The initiative significantly enhanced awareness and safety standards in domestic LPG usage across the country.
The Ministry also strengthened fuel retail and mobility infrastructure. Over 90,000 retail outlets were enabled with digital payment facilities, supported by more than 2.71 lakh POS terminals, while doorstep fuel delivery expanded through over 3,200 bowsers.
Electric mobility received a boost with the installation of nearly 9,000 EV charging stations under the FAME-II scheme, along with more than 18,500 additional chargers set up by oil marketing companies.
Progress was also recorded in the gas sector, with the operational natural gas pipeline network expanding to over 25,400 km by June 2025, moving the country closer to a fully connected national gas grid.
City Gas Distribution coverage increased to 307 geographical areas, with PNG connections reaching about 1.57 crore and CNG stations exceeding 8,400.
In the biofuels segment, ethanol blending in petrol reached an average of 19.24 percent in 2024–25, resulting in cumulative foreign exchange savings of over Rs 1.55 lakh crore and notable reductions in carbon emissions.
Reforms in the upstream sector, including the Oilfields Amendment Act and updated petroleum rules, further supported domestic exploration and energy security.
UNI VK SQ ARN .