Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday announced a new welfare scheme aimed at providing financial relief to low-income households in the national capital. Under this initiative, families possessing valid ration cards will receive one LPG gas cylinder free of cost on the occasions of Holi and Diwali.
Support for low-income households
The scheme is designed to benefit economically weaker sections, particularly women from low-income families who often bear the burden of household cooking needs. The move is aimed at easing fuel expenses during key festivals when household consumption typically increases.
According to the announcement, the distribution of free LPG cylinders will take place twice a year: once around Holi and once during Diwali. The scheme will be applicable only to residents of Delhi who are in possession of valid ration cards issued by the state government.
Focus on women and festival relief
While launching the scheme, the Chief Minister underlined the role of women in managing household responsibilities, particularly in economically disadvantaged groups. The provision of free cylinders intends to reduce the financial stress on these families during festivals, ensuring they can celebrate without the added burden of fuel costs.
Officials have indicated that further details regarding the registration process, eligibility verification, and distribution timeline will be communicated before the upcoming festival season. The necessary administrative and logistical arrangements are expected to be finalised soon.
Implementation through public distribution and oil marketing channels
The implementation of the scheme is expected to be carried out in coordination with the public distribution system (PDS) and authorised LPG distributors. The government will work with oil marketing companies to ensure timely delivery of the cylinders to eligible beneficiaries.
The cost of the free LPG cylinders will be borne entirely by the Delhi government, and is likely to be budgeted under existing welfare or subsidy heads. The number of beneficiaries will correspond to the current list of active ration card holders in the city.
Part of broader welfare efforts
This latest announcement aligns with other welfare measures undertaken by the Delhi government to support financially vulnerable residents. Over the years, various schemes related to subsidised food grains, electricity, and water have been introduced to assist low-income households.
With festivals being a significant part of cultural life in the capital, the announcement of this LPG subsidy adds to the government’s efforts to make essential resources more accessible during celebrations.
More updates regarding the rollout schedule and distribution mechanism are expected in the coming weeks as the festival of Holi approaches.
