Direct Benefit Transfer of LPG (DBTL)-PAHAL Scheme

Why in news?

Government continues to take measures to ensure that LPG distribution and subsidy transfers in respect of domestic LPG consumers are efficient, transparent, and inclusive.

• DBTL-PAHAL (Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh) – It is India’s flagship initiative for transferring LPG subsidies directly into the bank accounts of eligible consumers.
• Aim – This scheme aims to reduce subsidy leakage, eliminate duplication, and ensure subsidy reaches the intended beneficiaries.
• Launched by – Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
• Implemented through – Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and UIDAI.
• Eligibility – All domestic LPG consumers who have completed the KYC process and linked their Aadhaar or bank account details with their LPG consumer number are eligible.
  • The subsidy amount is directly transferred to the consumer's bank account after the purchase.
• Subsidy – A targeted subsidy of Rs.300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills of 14.2 Kg equivalent domestic LPG is being provided to all PMUY consumers.
  • In addition, various State Governments have also been providing subsidized refills or further subsidies to PMUY beneficiaries.
• Key Features of Scheme
  • To streamline the subsidy distribution process for LPG cylinders.
  • To reduce misuse and diversion of subsidized LPG.
  • To ensure that the benefits reach the deserving sections of society directly.
• Coverage – It covers over 17 crore LPG consumers nationwide, making it the largest cash transfer program globally.
• Steps to remove ineligible consumers –
  • Common LPG Database Platform (CLDP) – It is used for de-duplication of connections via Aadhaar, bank details, ration card, etc.
  • Biometric Aadhaar Authentication – It is mandatory for new PMUY and PAHAL beneficiaries.
    • As of Nov 2025, 69% of existing PMUY beneficiaries was authenticated.
  • Weeding Out Ineligible Consumers – 8.63 lakh PMUY connections terminated since inception.
    • Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued in Jan 2025 to remove inactive connections, around 20,000 inactive connections were terminated by Nov 2025.
  • 3^rd party evaluation – Conducted by Research and Development Initiative (RDI), over 90% respondents satisfied with subsidy reimbursement.

References

1. PIB |PAHAL (DBTL) Scheme Delivers Consumer-Centric Reforms
2. Clear tax | PAHAL Scheme