Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 21: In a major relief measure for economically weaker sections, the Delhi government has approved a scheme to provide one free LPG cooking gas cylinder to eligible households ahead of Holi. The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting held on Tuesday, with an allocation of Rs 300 crore sanctioned for the rollout, sources said.

The scheme, set to be implemented from Holi, marks the first on-ground execution of a key promise made by the BJP during the Delhi Assembly elections. In its election manifesto, the party had assured free LPG cylinders for poor families on the occasions of Holi and Diwali, along with an additional subsidised cylinder priced at Rs 500.

According to officials, the benefit will be extended to economically weaker households holding ration cards in the national capital. Identified beneficiaries will receive financial assistance equivalent to the cost of one LPG cylinder beginning this Holi.

However, the scheme will not involve the physical delivery of cylinders to households. Instead, it will be implemented through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism. The amount corresponding to the cost of one LPG cylinder will be credited directly into the Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries.

Officials said the DBT route has been chosen to ensure transparency and convenience, enabling beneficiaries to purchase refills from their existing LPG distributors without the need to change connections or suppliers. The funds are expected to be credited to accounts ahead of the festival.

The cabinet has earmarked Rs 300 crore for the first phase of the scheme linked to Holi. Future financial allocations will be decided based on the response to the initiative and further policy decisions.

Meanwhile, officials clarified that a decision regarding the BJP’s other poll promise of providing LPG cylinders at a subsidised rate of Rs 500 for poor households is still pending.