Delhi Government Announces Free LPG Cylinders for Eligible Households During Festivals
In a significant welfare initiative, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced that eligible ration card holders will receive free LPG cylinders during the festivals of Holi and Diwali. The announcement was made on Tuesday following a crucial cabinet meeting chaired by Gupta herself.
Direct Benefit Transfer System to Facilitate Distribution
The Delhi cabinet has decided to implement this scheme through a direct benefit transfer system. Under this mechanism, the government will transfer ₹853 directly to the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries. This amount represents the current market cost of a standard LPG cylinder, ensuring that households receive the full benefit without any intermediaries.
Chief Minister Gupta emphasized that the funds will be credited to beneficiaries' accounts ahead of the Holi festival, allowing families to celebrate without financial burden. The scheme demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting household welfare during important cultural celebrations.
Comprehensive Coverage Including PNG Users
In a noteworthy expansion of the initiative, Gupta clarified during her briefing that the benefit will also extend to eligible ration card holders who use piped natural gas (PNG) connections. This inclusive approach ensures that all qualified households, regardless of their cooking fuel type, can participate in the scheme.
The government has allocated a substantial budget of ₹242 crore specifically for this free gas cylinder program. This financial commitment underscores the administration's dedication to providing tangible support to Delhi's residents during festive seasons.
Eligibility and Implementation Details
The scheme targets households possessing valid ration cards, with the government focusing on direct financial assistance rather than physical distribution of cylinders. This approach streamlines the process and reduces logistical challenges while ensuring timely support reaches beneficiaries.
As Delhi prepares for the upcoming Holi celebrations, this announcement brings welcome relief to many families. The dual-festival coverage—spanning both Holi and Diwali—represents a sustained commitment to household welfare throughout the year's major celebrations.
