As the festive season approaches, the Delhi government has announced a major welfare move aimed at easing household expenses for thousands of families across the capital. Ahead of Holi 2026, the government has confirmed that eligible residents will receive financial support equivalent to the cost of an LPG cylinder, offering relief from rising cooking fuel prices.
Instead of distributing physical cylinders, the government will transfer the amount directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts. This initiative is expected to benefit ration card holders during two major festivals this year, Holi and Diwali, helping families manage festival-related expenses more comfortably.
The scheme reflects the government’s focus on targeted financial assistance using direct benefit transfers, ensuring faster delivery and reduced leakages.
Free LPG Cylinder Scheme in Delhi: What Has Been Announced?
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announced the decision after a cabinet meeting chaired by her. The government approved a scheme under which the cost of one LPG cylinder, ₹853, will be credited directly to the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries.
“The amount will be credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts before Holi,” Gupta said, adding that the aim is to provide timely relief to families during major festivals. The financial support will be provided through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, allowing beneficiaries to receive funds without intermediaries.
Free LPG Cylinder in Delhi: Who All are Eligible?
The scheme applies to Delhi residents who meet the following criteria:
- Must hold a valid ration card issued in Delhi
- Must have an active bank account linked for DBT
- Must be registered under the ration card system
- The benefit will be available regardless of whether the household uses LPG cylinders or piped cooking gas.
Are Piped Natural Gas (PNG) Users Included?
Yes. The Delhi government has clarified that households using piped natural gas connections will also receive the benefit. The chief minister said the benefit will not be limited to households using LPG cylinders.
Ration card holders who use piped natural gas (PNG) connections will also be covered under the scheme. This ensures that families who have transitioned to cleaner cooking fuel are not excluded from festival support.
Free LPG Cylinder: When Will Delhi Residents Get the Free LPG Cylinder Amount?
The government has set clear timelines for disbursal:
- Holi benefit: Before March 4, 2026
- Diwali benefit: Around November 8, 2026
The benefit will be provided twice in 2026, once during each festival. Residents do not need to apply separately if they already meet eligibility requirements.
How Will the Free LPG Cylinder Amount Be Transferred?
The ₹853 amount will be transferred directly into beneficiaries’ bank accounts under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. This method allows households to purchase cooking fuel from their preferred provider while ensuring transparency and faster processing.
Beneficiaries are advised to ensure their ration card details and bank accounts remain active and updated to avoid delays.
Free LPG Cylinder: How Much Has the Delhi Government Allocated for the Scheme?
To implement the scheme, the Delhi government has allocated ₹242 crore in the current budget. The allocation aims to cover a large number of low-income households across Delhi, particularly those most affected by rising fuel and essential commodity prices.
Why This Free LPG Cylinder Scheme Matters?
Cooking gas remains one of the biggest recurring household expenses for urban families. Festival seasons often increase spending pressure, especially on low-income households.
By transferring the LPG cylinder cost directly, the government aims to provide flexible financial support rather than a one-size-fits-all subsidy. The scheme also strengthens the use of DBT mechanisms for welfare delivery.
For many families, this assistance could help redirect savings toward other essential needs during festivals.
Free LPG Cylinder: What Beneficiaries Should Do Now?
Eligible residents should:
- Verify that their ration card is valid and active
- Ensure their bank account is correctly linked for DBT
- Monitor official updates for confirmation of credit
- No additional registration has been announced so far.
