Karnal: Industrial units in Karnal, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), have expressed serious concerns regarding rapid increases in the price of industrial Piped Natural Gas (PNG). According to statements issued by the Karnal Agricultural Implements Manufacturers Association (KAIMA), industrial fuel rates rose sharply from ₹55.21 per standard cubic metre (SCM) in February 2026 to ₹103.04 per SCM by August 2026, primarily driven by ongoing international market fluctuations.
Industry representatives asserted that sudden tariff revisions disrupt production planning, particularly for export units executing long-term contracts at fixed prices. Association officials urged state authorities and energy suppliers to establish a predictable mechanism requiring a 10-to-15-day advance notice before implementing price adjustments. Local manufacturers maintained that receiving cost updates after consumption leaves little scope to absorb unexpected operational expenses.
To alleviate economic strain, industrial leaders recommended bringing PNG under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) framework instead of the current Value Added Tax (VAT) system to enable Input Tax Credit benefits. The association affirmed that structural tax reforms and transparent pricing notices remain essential to preserve the financial sustainability and regional competitiveness of local manufacturing units.
