Government Offers Free LPG Cylinder Plus ₹853 for Holi and Diwali

Delhi residents have something extra to cheer about this festive season! True to its election promise, the Rekha Gupta government has launched a scheme to provide free gas cylinders for Holi and Diwali, aiming to ease the financial burden on families. The cabinet has approved a budget of approximately Rs 243 crore for this initiative, which will directly benefit households across the city.

Who will benefit?

The scheme targets all 1.75 million ration card-holding families in Delhi, particularly the economically weaker sections. Families using piped natural gas (PNG) connections are also eligible, as the government will transfer the cash equivalent instead of sending a cylinder. Typically, a ration card holder will receive Rs 853, the full cost of one cylinder, directly into their bank account.

If you are already part of the Ujjwala Yojana

Many households already receive a Rs 300 central subsidy under the Ujjwala Yojana. In such cases, the Delhi government will provide the remaining Rs 553, ensuring that the cylinder is completely free for beneficiaries. This means that both new and existing subsidy recipients can enjoy the full benefit without paying anything out of pocket.

How to claim the benefit

The scheme operates through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), so eligible families must complete a few steps:

• Aadhaar Linking: Your bank account must be linked to your Aadhaar card.
• e-KYC Verification: Ensure the e-KYC of both your ration card and gas connection is complete.
• Mobile Number Linking: Your mobile number should be linked to Aadhaar to receive notifications about the payment.
• Gas Connection in Your Name: Only connections registered under the head of the ration card will qualify.

When will you get the money?

• The refund will be transferred digitally before Holi in March 2026 and again around Diwali.
• Families will need to book and pay for the cylinder first, after which the government will reimburse the full amount directly to their bank accounts.
• The entire process is digital, ensuring you don’t need to visit any government office.

Why this scheme matters

This initiative not only eases the financial burden of festive expenses but also promotes digital transactions, reduces paperwork, and ensures transparent and direct delivery of benefits. For Delhi’s 1.75 million ration card holders, this scheme promises a hassle-free and joyful festival experience.

With Holi and Diwali just around the corner, eligible families can now celebrate without worrying about gas cylinder costs, making the festivals brighter and more memorable.