Domestic LPG consumers will need to complete biometric Aadhaar authentication to continue receiving the cooking gas subsidy from October 1. The move makes Aadhaar-based verification mandatory for subsidy-linked cylinder bookings.

The measure is aimed at plugging leakages in the subsidy system by ensuring that the benefit reaches only genuine, verified consumers.

What changes from October 1

From the start of next month, booking a subsidised domestic LPG cylinder will require the consumer’s biometric Aadhaar authentication. Those who do not complete the verification may find their subsidy blocked or delayed.

The authentication is expected to weed out duplicate, inactive, and benami connections that have long drained the subsidy pool. By linking each connection to a verified biometric identity, the system becomes harder to game.

How to complete the verification

Consumers can complete the process at their LPG distributor’s office, where biometric authentication is carried out. Many distributors also support verification through their mobile apps and customer service channels.

It is advisable to keep the Aadhaar-linked mobile number active, since one-time passwords and verification alerts are sent to it. Consumers should also ensure that the name and details on their LPG connection match their Aadhaar records to avoid mismatches.

Why the government is pushing this

The LPG subsidy is one of the government’s largest direct benefit transfers, and even small leakages add up to large sums. Biometric authentication adds a layer of identity proof that paper documents alone cannot provide.

Consumers who have not yet verified their details should treat the days before October 1 as the final window and get the process done to avoid disruption in their subsidy.

Those who book cylinders through mobile apps or missed-call services should note that the biometric step is linked to the subsidy, not the booking itself. Consumers can still book and receive cylinders, but the subsidy amount may not be credited until the verification is complete.