Source: The Hindu
Why in News?
The International Gas Union (IGU) released the World LNG Report 2026 on 8 July 2026. India became the 4th largest LNG regasification market in the world, surpassing Spain.
What is the IGU World LNG Report?
- Published by: International Gas Union (IGU)
- Released: Annually
- Purpose: Provides global data on LNG production, trade, imports, exports and regasification infrastructure.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | 2025 Status |
|---|---|
| India’s LNG Regasification Capacity | 52.5 mtpa |
| Global Rank | 4th (surpassed Spain) |
| Operational LNG Terminals | 8 |
| India’s LNG Import Rank | 4th largest importer |
| New Capacity Added in 2025 | 7.1 mtpa |
| Share in Global Capacity Addition | 11.3% |
What is LNG?
- Full form: Liquefied Natural Gas.
- Natural gas cooled to −162°C to convert it into liquid for easy transport and storage.
- Composition: ~95% Methane (CH₄) + trace ethane, propane, nitrogen.
- Uses: Power generation, city gas, transport fuel, fertilizer feedstock.
Exam Relevance
- UPSC Prelims & Mains: CRITICAL — GS-III (Energy, Infrastructure, Environment, External Sector); GS-II (International Institutions); Prelims (LNG, IGU, PNGRB, Petronet, Dahej); Mains-Essay on energy transition.
- NABARD Grade A: Medium — General awareness on energy sector.
- State PCS (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha): CRITICAL — LNG terminals in these states.
