PAHAL (DBTL) Scheme Delivers Improved Efficiency, Transparency and Consumer-Centric Reforms

The Direct Benefit Transfer of LPG (PAHAL) scheme continues to strengthen India’s LPG subsidy framework with transparent and consumer-focused reforms. Launched in January 2015, PAHAL ensures that all domestic LPG cylinders are sold at a uniform retail price nationwide, while subsidies are credited directly into consumers’ bank accounts. This model promotes clarity, reduces leakages and makes subsidy delivery more accountable.

Key Benefits of PAHAL in Subsidy Delivery

The Government has consistently improved system design so that LPG distribution and cash transfers remain efficient, inclusive and reliable. PAHAL, supported by Aadhaar-based verification, biometric authentication and data cleansing drives, has strengthened the targeting of subsidies by eliminating ghost, inactive and duplicate connections. This has greatly reduced diversion of subsidised LPG towards commercial use.

Major Reform Measures Strengthening PAHAL

Several structural improvements underpin the scheme, including:

1. Deduplication Through Common LPG Database Platform (CLDP)

A unified database helps identify duplicate or fraudulent connections. Matching is carried out using Aadhaar, bank account information, ration card details, Temporary Identification Numbers, household lists, name and address records. This ensures that only one valid LPG connection exists per eligible household.

2. Biometric Aadhaar Authentication for DBT Schemes

Biometric authentication enhances real-time beneficiary verification. The Government mandated Oil Marketing Companies to authenticate PMUY and PAHAL beneficiaries. As of 1 November 2025, 69% of existing Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries have completed biometric authentication, while all new PMUY customers undergo this process before connection release.

3. Removing Ineligible and Inactive Consumers

Data-driven checks under PAHAL have helped terminate 8.63 lakh PMUY connections identified as ineligible since launch. In January 2025, a new SOP was issued to remove consumers who did not take a refill after installation, resulting in 20,000 inactive connections terminated by 1 November 2025.

Third-Party Evaluation Shows Positive Feedback

An independent evaluation by the Research and Development Initiative (RDI) found that over 90% of respondents were satisfied with the subsidy reimbursement process under PAHAL. The study recommended enhanced payment infrastructure, stronger grievance redressal systems and better targeting of subsidies to weaker sections. It also highlighted the need for greater safety education and outreach, especially in local languages.

The Government has accepted these suggestions and further strengthened subsidy transfer systems, transparency, outreach and consumer convenience.

Strengthened Grievance Redressal Mechanisms

To enhance service quality, the LPG grievance handling system has been significantly upgraded. Consumers can now lodge complaints through:

• Toll-free helpline (1800 2333 555)
• Oil Marketing Companies’ websites and mobile apps
• Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS)
• Chatbots, WhatsApp services and social media platforms
• MoPNGeSEVA channels
• Dedicated helpline 1906 for leakage/accident issues
• Distributor offices

Online complaints also allow consumers to rate service satisfaction, and if needed, reopen cases for review.