In a major welfare initiative aimed at providing relief during festive seasons, the Delhi government has announced free LPG gas cylinder support for eligible households on the occasions of Holi and Diwali. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta made the announcement on Tuesday after a Cabinet meeting, confirming that a budget of ₹242 crore has been approved for the scheme.
The decision is expected to benefit lakhs of families across the national capital, particularly those struggling with rising household expenses and fuel costs. The Chief Minister said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to supporting economically weaker sections and ensuring that festivals are celebrated without financial stress.
How the Scheme Will Work
Under the scheme, households holding valid ration cards will receive ₹853 per cylinder through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into their linked bank accounts. The amount corresponds to the prevailing price of a standard domestic LPG cylinder and will be credited ahead of each festival.
Officials clarified that the benefit will be provided twice a year, once before Holi and once before Diwali, effectively enabling families to purchase two LPG cylinders annually without bearing the cost.
The DBT mechanism has been chosen to ensure transparency, eliminate leakages, and guarantee that funds reach genuine beneficiaries directly and on time.
Coverage Extended to PNG Users
In a move to widen the scope of the scheme, the government has also included households using piped natural gas (PNG) connections. These beneficiaries will receive the same financial assistance, ensuring energy support across different cooking fuel systems.
Officials said this approach ensures fairness and inclusivity, especially in urban areas where PNG connections are common.
Who Will Benefit
According to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the scheme will cover approximately 17.5 lakh ration card-holding families across Delhi. Only households that meet eligibility criteria under existing government welfare norms will be included.
Families without valid ration cards or those falling outside the notified income categories will not be eligible for the benefit.
The initiative fulfills a key promise made in the BJP’s 2025 Delhi Assembly election manifesto, which committed to providing free LPG cylinders to eligible families during major festivals.
Focus on Women and Household Welfare
Government officials highlighted that the scheme is particularly beneficial for women, who bear the primary responsibility of household cooking in most families. Rising LPG prices have been a concern for low-income households, and this support is expecteds to ease daily financial pressures.
By ensuring access to clean cooking fuel during festive periods, the government aims to improve quality of life and reduce dependence on unsafe alternatives.
Part of a Broader Welfare Push
The free LPG cylinder scheme is part of a broader welfare framework introduced by the Rekha Gupta-led government since taking office. Other initiatives focus on reducing essential living costs, strengthening public services, and extending targeted benefits to vulnerable groups.
With Holi approaching, officials indicated that the first round of DBT payments is expected to be credited in the coming weeks, allowing beneficiaries to prepare for the festival without worrying about fuel expenses.
