India imported 36.85 billion cubic meters (BCM) of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the first six months of the fiscal year, while domestic natural gas production reached 36,438 million metric standard cubic meters (MMSCM). The increase in LNG imports underscores the country’s growing energy needs and reliance on global LNG supplies to meet industrial and domestic demand. The Indian government has been working to strike a balance between ramping up domestic natural gas production and importing LNG to fulfill the energy needs of its burgeoning population and expanding industrial sectors.

The rise in natural gas production is attributed to increased output from various domestic fields. However, despite efforts to boost local production, the country's LNG imports continue to play a crucial role in filling the gap between supply and demand. India is among the world's largest importers of LNG, and this import surge highlights the country's strategy to meet its energy requirements while transitioning toward cleaner energy sources.

The government has set a vision of increasing the share of natural gas in the overall energy mix, aiming to make it a more significant component in the country's clean energy transition. Natural gas is seen as a bridge fuel, offering a lower carbon footprint compared to coal and oil, while efforts to scale up renewables progress.

With this consistent import of LNG and focus on growing domestic production, India aims to secure energy availability and contribute to reducing its carbon emissions. This dual strategy also reflects the country's broader commitment to energy security and economic growth. The rise in gas consumption across various sectors, including power generation, transportation, and industries, underlines the importance of robust energy infrastructure in sustaining India’s development trajectory.