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In a step like the one taken for mobile number portability, cooking gas users can now switch their supplier while keeping their current connection, providing them with more options and better service. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB), which oversees oil regulation, has asked for input from both stakeholders and consumers regarding the LPG interoperability framework. In a public announcement, PNGRB mentioned that when a local distributor experiences operational issues, consumers often have few choices, creating challenges for them. "There might be other factors too, and consumers should have the freedom to choose their LPG provider or dealer, especially when the price of the cylinder remains the same," said the oil regulator. While the telecom industry in India has successfully implemented interoperability, the same progress has not been seen in the LPG sector. "Recent reports from different areas have pointed out several instances of supply interruptions and long waits for LPG refills, with some delays lasting weeks. These service disruptions have caused difficulties for both households and businesses, especially in places where local distributors are facing suspensions or other operational challenges," the PNGRB mentioned in their notice.

However, unlike mobile services, where consumers can easily switch between various phone companies, LPG users were only allowed limited dealer changes back in 2014, meaning they could not change their oil company. For example, a user of Indane Gas from the Indian Oil Corporation could only select from nearby Indane Gas dealers. They could not transition to Bharat Gas from Bharat Petroleum or HPGas from Hindustan Petroleum, as intercompany switching was not legally permitted then. Now, consumers will have the option to change their dealers as they wish, because PNGRB is looking to allow intercompany portability as well. "To ensure a steady supply of LPG and maintain consumer trust, PNGRB is seeking opinions and suggestions from consumers, distributors, civil society groups, and other involved parties on ways to ensure timely refill access - by allowing consumers to be helped by the closest available distributor through better coordination and adaptable delivery options within the current network, particularly during supply interruptions," the regulator stated.

The PNGRB mentioned that India has nearly universal coverage of LPG in households, with more than 32 crore connections as of the fiscal year 2025. "However, complaints from consumers continue to exceed 17 lakh every year. While oil marketing companies (OMCs) attempt to address these complaints, consumers lack the option to switch from one OMC or LPG dealer to another," it explained, stressing the need for a focus on maintaining service continuity to protect consumers against service failures and to guarantee continuous access to this vital fuel.