Free LPG Cylinders: In a significant move to provide relief to economically vulnerable sections of society, the Delhi government has announced a new welfare scheme offering free LPG gas cylinders. At a press conference on Tuesday, February 3, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed that the BJP-led government’s proposal has been officially approved by the Delhi Cabinet, fulfilling a key promise made during the Delhi Assembly elections. The scheme is specifically designed to support low-income families, with a special focus on women, during the major festive seasons of Holi and Diwali.
Key Features of the Free LPG Cylinder Scheme
The government has laid out a clear framework for the implementation of this scheme to ensure the benefits reach the intended recipients efficiently.
- Benefit: Eligible families will receive two free LPG gas cylinders every year.
- Timeline: One cylinder will be provided for the festival of Holi and the second for Diwali.
- Eligibility: The scheme is open to families holding a valid ration card and those who fall under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category.
- Inclusivity: The Chief Minister has clarified that beneficiaries using piped natural gas (PNG) connections will not be excluded and are also eligible for the benefits.
Financial Assistance and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
To streamline the process and prevent leakages, the government will use the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Instead of providing physical cylinders, the monetary equivalent will be transferred directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
| Scheme Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | ₹853 per cylinder |
| Transfer Method | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) |
| First Instalment | To be deposited before Holi |
| Total Allocation | ₹242 crore (Estimated cost: approx. ₹300 crore) |
CM Rekha Gupta announced that an amount of Rs 853, equivalent to the current cost of one LPG cylinder, will be deposited into the bank accounts of all eligible families. The first payment under this scheme is scheduled to be made before the upcoming Holi festival, ensuring families can celebrate without financial strain.
The government has earmarked an initial budget of Rs 242 crore for this initiative, though the total estimated expenditure for the scheme is projected to be around ₹300 crore. Praising the scheme, CM Gupta reiterated her government’s commitment to fulfilling its electoral promises and working for the welfare of the capital’s residents. This move is expected to bring significant financial relief to thousands of households across Delhi.
