India to require Aadhaar biometric checks for LPG subsidy access

The government has mandated Aadhaar-based biometric verification as a prerequisite for consumers seeking subsidy on domestic LPG refills from the first of October next year. The directive was announced on Saturday and represents a significant shift in how the state disburses cooking gas subsidies to households across the country.

The biometric authentication requirement is designed to ensure that only eligible consumers receive subsidised LPG and to reduce fraudulent claims on the subsidy scheme. By linking Aadhaar biometrics to the subsidy distribution process, authorities aim to create a more transparent and efficient system for tracking and verifying beneficiaries.

Implementing Aadhaar-based authentication in the LPG subsidy system aligns with the government's broader digital identity initiative. The Aadhaar programme, which maintains biometric and demographic data of Indian residents, has been increasingly integrated into welfare and subsidy schemes to enhance targeting and reduce leakages.

Consumers will be required to provide biometric verification at the point of LPG purchase or through authorised distribution channels. The transition period between now and October 2026 will allow stakeholders, including LPG distributors and consumers, to prepare for the new authentication process.