ESMA invoked to ensure LPG supply: What is ESMA, how does it work, its essential services and more?

The Indian government Tuesday invoked the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 (ESMA) to ensure an uninterrupted domestic cooking gas supply amid the ongoing West Asia conflict. The government directed refineries and petrochemical units to maximise LPG production and divert key hydrocarbon streams to the LPG pool. The order states that the supply of natural gas to certain sectors shall be treated as priority allocation and shall be maintained subject to operational availability to hundred per cent of their average past six-month gas consumption. These sectors include: Domestic Piped Natural Gas supply; Compressed Natural Gas for transport; LPG production, including LPG shrinkage requirements; Pipeline compressor fuel and other essential pipeline operational requirements.

ESMA kya hai?

The Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) is a law that the government can invoke to ban strikes and work stoppages in services considered vital for the normal functioning of society when disruptions could seriously affect daily life. It’s most often mentioned during major strikes or protests that threaten essential operations.


What are essential services under ESMA?

Essential services under ESMA include any work critical to sustaining life or public safety. This can range from healthcare, sanitation, water supply, and defence, to banking, communication, transport, and government food distribution.

Which industries are classified as essential under ESMA?

Key sectors classified as essential under ESMA include hospitals, defence, petroleum, coal, power, steel, fertilizers, banking, communication, and transport services. Employees in these sectors cannot refuse overtime if their work is crucial to maintaining services.

Is going on strike illegal under ESMA?

Strikes are not automatically illegal. However, once ESMA is invoked, the government can issue an order prohibiting strikes that threaten public life. Any strike after this order becomes illegal.

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What consequences do employees face for violating ESMA rules?

Employees who strike after ESMA is invoked may face disciplinary action, including dismissal. They can also be arrested without a warrant and may face imprisonment of up to one year, a fine, or both.

How is ESMA different from the Essential Commodities Act?

While ESMA ensures essential services continue without interruption, the Essential Commodities Act regulates production, supply, and distribution of certain commodities to prevent hoarding, black marketing, and ensure fair pricing.

Why should citizens know about ESMA?

Understanding ESMA helps citizens recognize the government’s role in maintaining critical services, especially during emergencies like pandemics or large-scale strikes.

(With TOI inputs)