<h4>Inauguration of India's First Small-Scale LNG Unit</h4><p>The <strong>Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas</strong> recently inaugurated a significant energy infrastructure project in India.</p><p>This landmark event marked the establishment of <strong>India’s first small-scale liquefied natural gas (SSLNG) unit</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Location:</strong> The unit was inaugurated at <strong>GAIL (India) Ltd’s Vijaipur complex</strong> in <strong>Madhya Pradesh</strong>.</p></div><h4>Government's Vision for Natural Gas</h4><p>This development is a crucial part of the <strong>government’s broader initiative</strong> to promote the widespread use of natural gas.</p><p>The objective is to integrate natural gas into various sectors of the economy.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p><strong>Strategic Goal:</strong> To increase the share of <strong>natural gas</strong> in the country’s <strong>primary energy mix to 15% by 2030</strong>.</p></div><h4>Understanding Small-Scale LNG (SSLNG)</h4><p><strong>Small-Scale LNG (SSLNG)</strong> refers to facilities that produce, store, and distribute LNG in smaller quantities compared to large export terminals.</p><p>These units are vital for catering to demand in regions not connected by extensive gas pipeline networks.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>UPSC aspirants should note that SSLNG units are key for <strong>decentralized energy supply</strong> and enhancing <strong>energy accessibility</strong> in remote or underserved areas, aligning with infrastructure development goals (<strong>GS-III</strong>).</p></div>