Delhi Government Approves Free LPG Cylinder Scheme for Holi and Diwali, Relief for Low-Income Families

In a major relief for economically weaker households, the Delhi government has approved a new welfare scheme under which eligible families will receive two free LPG cylinders every year, one each on the occasions of Holi and Diwali. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during a press conference held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The scheme aims to reduce the financial burden on low-income households and provide direct support to women managing household expenses.

The decision has been formally cleared by the Delhi Cabinet, fulfilling a key promise made by the ruling party during the assembly elections. With this approval, thousands of families across the national capital are expected to benefit from the initiative starting this year.

Who Will Get the Benefit of the Free LPG Cylinder Scheme?

According to the government, the scheme will be applicable to valid ration card holders belonging to the economically weaker sections (EWS). Families that meet the eligibility criteria will receive financial assistance equivalent to the cost of one LPG cylinder during Holi and another during Diwali.

The Chief Minister clarified that the primary objective of the scheme is to support financially vulnerable families, especially women from low-income households, by easing cooking fuel expenses during major festivals.

Direct Benefit Transfer Instead of Physical Cylinders

Instead of distributing physical LPG cylinders, the government will provide the benefit through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism. Under this system, an amount equal to the price of one LPG cylinder will be credited directly into the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries.

As per the cabinet decision, the cost of one LPG cylinder has been fixed at ₹853 for the purpose of this scheme. This amount will be transferred twice a year—once before Holi and once before Diwali—ensuring timely financial support ahead of the festivals.

PNG Users Also Included in the Scheme

One of the key highlights of the announcement is that families using Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections will not be excluded. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed that eligible ration card holders who rely on PNG for cooking will also receive the same financial benefit under the scheme.

This move ensures inclusivity and prevents discrimination based on the type of cooking fuel used by households.

Budget Allocation and Expected Cost

The Delhi government has allocated ₹242 crore for the implementation of the free LPG cylinder scheme in the current phase. Officials estimate that the total expenditure on the initiative could go up to ₹300 crore, depending on the final number of beneficiaries.

The government has stated that additional funds may be allocated if required to ensure smooth implementation and full coverage of eligible families.

Implementation Timeline

The first installment of the benefit is expected to be transferred before Holi, allowing families to use the amount for festival-related cooking expenses. The second installment will be credited ahead of Diwali later in the year.

Authorities are expected to issue detailed guidelines soon regarding verification, beneficiary identification, and the DBT process to avoid delays or discrepancies.

Government’s Commitment to Welfare Promises

Speaking to the media, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized that her government remains committed to delivering on its election promises. She described the free LPG cylinder scheme as a step toward social welfare and economic support for households that struggle with rising living costs.

The government believes that this initiative will not only provide financial relief but also contribute to improved living conditions for low-income families across the capital.

Key Takeaway

The approval of two free LPG cylinder benefits annually marks a significant welfare measure by the Delhi government. By opting for a DBT-based model, including PNG users, and focusing on economically weaker sections, the scheme aims to be inclusive, transparent, and efficient.

Eligible families can expect timely financial assistance during Holi and Diwali, helping them manage essential household expenses during the festive season.