Aadhaar Authentication Set to Shape LPG Subsidy Access

As the government tightens controls over subsidised cooking gas, Aadhaar authentication is set to become central to LPG refill access from October 1, 2026.

Domestic LPG consumers will need Biometric Aadhaar Authentication (BAA) to book refills at the regulated retail selling price with applicable subsidy.

So far, 27.43 crore active consumers have completed the process. This accounts for 89.9% of the total consumer base.

Consumers who have already completed authentication need not take further action. Their refill services will continue as usual.

However, those who have not completed BAA must authenticate before accessing subsidised refills at the regulated price.

The process offers several options. Consumers can complete authentication during cylinder delivery or visit their LPG distributor’s showroom.

They can also use the digital apps of public sector oil marketing companies.

Indane customers can use IndianOil ONE. Bharatgas users can authenticate through HelloBPCL. HP Gas consumers can use HP PAY.

Therefore, many consumers can complete the process without visiting a distributor.

Consumers who cannot or do not wish to complete BAA can still receive LPG. However, they must register their preference through their OMC’s digital platforms.

These include consumer portals, mobile apps, WhatsApp chatbots and IVRS services.

Such consumers will receive cylinders at the applicable market price without subsidy. The option will cover 5 kg and 10 kg cylinders, subject to local availability.

The government says BAA will help direct subsidies towards genuine households. It also aims to curb duplicate connections and prevent domestic cylinders from being diverted for commercial or industrial use.

The authentication deadline had earlier been extended several times. The final deadline was set for September 14.

The subsidy burden remains significant. The implicit subsidy on a 14.2 kg cylinder stood at about ₹210 in September.

t was around ₹721 in June. Meanwhile, the government plans ₹30,000 crore in OMC compensation during FY2025-26 and FY2026-27.

Public sector OMCs had accumulated domestic LPG under-recoveries exceeding ₹62,000 crore by August 31, 2026.

Against this backdrop, the government is using authentication to target subsidy support more precisely.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image published on July 20, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1414939