State yet to turn to Aadhaar-linked accounts to transfer LPG subsidy

Even as the government has announced LPG subsidy, they are yet to announce how they would transfer it to customers. While gas agencies have got no clear directive on this, the government has not yet turned to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts to make it easier for the transfer of subsidy.

state federation president of the LPG dealers association Usha Poonawalla said she had no idea how they would transfer the subsidy. "Even as we have asked people to give us their bank accounts, it is a long and tedious process and we are already so bogged down with the work to enable the smooth flow of subsidised cylinders to customers. This transfer of subsidy should be dealt with directly by the government,'' says Poonawalla.

So even as the state is working towards having Aadhaar-enabled financial inclusion project, they are yet to announce the same, unlike several other states. Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are already carrying out the transfer of subsidies for various government schemes.

Aadhaar officials said they have already been able to transfer the subsidy of fertilizers in many parts of Maharashtra. The pilots for the same are operational in Pune, Mumbai, Nandurbar, Amravati and Wardha.

"With Wardha having almost 90 per cent coverage it becomes easier to link the number and data to transfer the subsidy. Similar processes are being worked out for all government schemes,'' said the official.

They, however, have yet to be approached about the transfer of subsidy for LPG cylinders.

The government will have to deposit the subsidy announced in the customer's account.

"For example, subsidised LPG price in Pune is Rs 433 and the market price is different. The difference will have to be transferred to the customer. Customers will have to get reimbursement for six cylinders,'' explained the official.

... contd.

ALSO READ

Freeze your wedding memories in 3D video

Hate speech: Pune court asks police to book Owaisi

CCTV cameras bought for CYG ‘vanish’

Kalmadi in troubled waters, rivals ready to make a 'splash'