Government Ensures Transparent Subsidy Transfers for Domestic LPG Consumers: Puri

New Delhi, August 6: The Government of India has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring transparent and targeted subsidy transfers for domestic LPG consumers. On Tuesday, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply that several measures have been taken to streamline and secure the subsidy transfer process.

Puri highlighted the implementation of key initiatives such as the PAHAL (Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG - DBTL) scheme, Aadhaar-based verification, biometric authentication, and the identification and removal of ineligible or duplicate LPG connections. These steps, he said, have significantly enhanced the transparency and efficiency of the subsidy system.

The minister stated that one of the major achievements of these reforms has been the elimination of fake beneficiaries, ensuring that subsidies reach the rightful consumers. “These efforts have not only improved transparency but also empowered consumers,” he said.

To further improve the consumer experience, the government has implemented a nationwide IVRS/SMS-based refill booking system, enabling consumers to receive SMS alerts at every stage — from refill booking and cash memo generation to final delivery. This allows consumers to monitor their LPG transactions and raise complaints in case of discrepancies.

In addition, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have introduced a Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) system. This code, sent via SMS at the time of cash memo generation, must be provided to the delivery personnel to complete the refill delivery — adding an extra layer of verification.

To ensure fair practices in LPG distribution, Puri informed that the government has enforced the “Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Order, 2000.” Furthermore, OMCs have established Marketing Discipline Guidelines (MDG) that set strict standards for LPG distributors.

Distributors found involved in malpractice face punitive action under these guidelines or the terms of their distributor contracts. “All proven cases of irregularities are dealt with firmly,” Puri said.

The minister emphasized that these efforts reflect the government’s resolve to build a transparent, consumer-friendly, and accountable LPG distribution and subsidy system.