In a decisive move to manage the natural gas shortfall, the Indian government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act. This allows authorities to prioritize gas supplies for critical sectors, specifically households (PNG) and the transport sector (CNG), over industrial usage. Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma stated that these measures are necessary to ensure that the common man is not hit by the energy crisis. By regulating the distribution of available domestic and imported gas, the government aims to maintain social stability while alternative energy routes are being secured.