From October 1, 2026, Biometric Aadhaar Authentication (BAA) will be mandatory for domestic LPG customers to book cylinders at government-subsidised rates. According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the aim of this move is to ensure that subsidised LPG reaches only eligible households.
The government stated that Aadhaar-based verification would help identify and eliminate duplicate and ineligible LPG connections, while also curbing the use of domestic cylinders for commercial or industrial purposes.
Customers who have already completed the BAA process do not need to repeat it and can continue booking domestic LPG cylinders as usual. Those who have not yet completed the authentication must do so before receiving a subsidized cylinder. The BAA process can be completed via the delivery person’s mobile app at the time of delivery, by visiting the LPG distributor’s showroom, or through the mobile apps of the oil marketing companies.
Customers who do not wish to complete the BAA process or are unable to do so will still be able to purchase LPG by registering their preference through their OMC’s digital channels. Depending on local availability, they will be provided with 5 kg or 10 kg cylinders at the applicable market price, without subsidy.
27.43 Crore Consumers Have Completed Authentication
According to official data, 27.43 crore active domestic LPG consumers in the country had completed biometric Aadhaar authentication by September 19. This accounts for approximately 90 percent of the total consumers.
The government stated that oil marketing companies have been conducting awareness campaigns across the country regarding this since October 2023. Measures taken under this initiative include sending SMS and WhatsApp messages to consumers, reaching out through distributors and delivery personnel, organizing special enrollment camps, and providing reminders via IVRS. Public awareness is also being raised through digital and traditional media.
According to the government, the indirect subsidy on a 14.2 kg domestic LPG cylinder was around ₹210 in September 2026. It said that amid the financial burden on public sector oil marketing companies, restricting the subsidy to genuine and eligible beneficiaries is necessary to sustain the scheme.
(PIB)
