Delhi Government Announces Pre-Festival LPG Subsidy Disbursement for 1.75 Million Households

The Delhi administration has unveiled a targeted Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) initiative to provide financial assistance for LPG cylinder purchases to 1.75 million ration card-holding families ahead of major festivals, including Holi and Deepavali. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the scheme, which carries an estimated fiscal outlay of ₹242.77 crore. This strategic intervention is designed to alleviate household economic pressure during peak consumption periods, ensuring dignified access to clean cooking fuel. The program underscores a welfare-centric governance model, directly linking subsidy delivery to documented beneficiaries to enhance efficiency and transparency. Analysts note the timing aligns with both seasonal demand surges and political messaging, reinforcing support among core constituencies. The move reflects broader trends in urban subsidy rationalization, shifting from blanket price controls to targeted cash transfers. Implementation will be closely monitored for its impact on reducing out-of-pocket energy expenditures and potential inflationary effects during festive seasons. This policy represents a significant component of Delhi's social safety net architecture, aiming to balance fiscal prudence with substantive welfare delivery.