Domestic LPG consumers in India will be required to complete biometric Aadhaar authentication to receive subsidized refills from October 1, 2026. This government directive aims to streamline the delivery of subsidies, ensuring they reach genuine households and preventing the diversion of subsidized cylinders for commercial or industrial purposes.
As of September 19, 2026, approximately 27.43 crore active domestic LPG consumers, representing 89.9% of the total, have already completed the necessary Aadhaar authentication. These consumers will not need to take any further action and can continue booking their refills as usual.
Why Aadhaar Authentication is Becoming Mandatory
The move is part of a broader effort to enhance the transparency and efficiency of the LPG subsidy program. By linking each LPG connection to an Aadhaar-authenticated individual, the government intends to:
- Prevent the illicit diversion of subsidized domestic cylinders for commercial and industrial use.
- Eliminate duplicate and ineligible connections from the system.
- Ensure that subsidy benefits are accurately targeted to eligible households.
How to Complete Biometric Aadhaar Authentication
Consumers who have not yet completed their biometric Aadhaar authentication have several convenient options:
- During Delivery: The LPG delivery personnel can assist with the authentication process using the Oil Marketing Company (OMC) mobile application at the time of refill delivery.
- LPG Distributor Showroom: Consumers can visit their nearest LPG distributor's showroom to complete the biometric verification.
- OMC Mobile Applications: Authentication can also be done from home using the official mobile applications of the three OMCs:
- Indane customers: IndianOil ONE app
- Bharatgas customers: HelloBPCL app
- HP Gas customers: HP PAY app
Video tutorials for completing self e-KYC are also available on the PMUY (Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana) portal for additional guidance.
What Happens If Authentication Isn't Completed?
Consumers who are unwilling or unable to complete biometric Aadhaar authentication will still be able to receive LPG. However, they must register their choice through their OMC’s digital channels, which include the consumer web portal, mobile application, WhatsApp chatbot, or IVRS (Interactive Voice Response System).
Such consumers will receive LPG at the applicable market price, without the subsidy, and will typically be offered 5 kg or 10 kg cylinders, subject to availability with the concerned OMC.
Previous Deadlines and Outreach Efforts
The government initially set a deadline of June 30, 2026, for Aadhaar authentication, which was subsequently extended multiple times before being finalized for September 14, 2026. Since October 2023, OMCs have conducted extensive nationwide outreach campaigns. These efforts included sending over 12 crore SMS and WhatsApp messages, individual follow-ups by distributors and delivery staff, and organizing special authentication camps in both urban and rural areas to facilitate the process for consumers.
Understanding the LPG Subsidy
Domestic LPG is sold below its cost price, with the government covering the difference through an implicit subsidy. In September 2026, this implicit subsidy was approximately ₹210 per 14.2-kg cylinder, a notable decrease from ₹721 in June 2026.
The government has provided significant compensation to OMCs, including ₹22,000 crore in FY2022-23 and an additional ₹30,000 crore allocated for FY2025-26 and FY2026-27. Accumulated under-recoveries for public-sector OMCs on domestic LPG exceeded ₹62,000 crore as of August 31, 2026, highlighting the financial impact of these subsidies.
Consumers who have not yet completed their Aadhaar authentication are strongly advised to do so before October 1, 2026, to continue receiving subsidized LPG refills. For assistance, the LPG toll-free helpline is 1800 2333 555.