Latest Update:
- The Indian government has deactivated more than 4 crore duplicate or inactive domestic LPG connections under the PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh) scheme, according to a recent statement by the Petroleum Minister in Parliament.
About PAHAL Scheme:
- Full Name: Direct Benefits Transfer For LPG (PAHAL)
- Ministry: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
- Launch: Implemented as India’s DBT system for LPG subsidies
- Coverage: Over 17 crore LPG consumers nationwide
- Global Standing: World’s largest cash transfer program
Objectives of PAHAL Scheme:
- Ensure transparency in subsidy distribution
- Eliminate intermediaries and fake/duplicate LPG connections
- Remove incentives for diversion of subsidized LPG
- Protect consumer entitlement and ensure timely subsidy payment
- Improve availability and delivery of LPG cylinders
- Provide self-selection in subsidy (opt-out options for non-needy)
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicant must be a registered LPG user
- Combined taxable income of applicant and spouse must not exceed ₹10 lakh in the previous financial year, as per Income Tax Act, 1961
How the PAHAL Scheme Works:
- Consumer books an LPG cylinder at market price
- After delivery, subsidy amount is credited directly into the linked bank account
Two modes of subsidy transfer:
- Primary (Aadhaar-Based DBT): Aadhaar linked to both LPG ID and bank account
- Alternative (Non-Aadhaar-Based): Direct linkage of bank account to LPG ID (if Aadhaar unavailable)