LPG Rules Change From May 1: No Cylinder Without OTP, Booking Limits Tightened

From May 1, Indian households will see important changes in how they book and receive cooking gas cylinders. The government, along with oil companies like Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Petroleum, has introduced stricter rules to improve transparency, reduce misuse, and ensure fair distribution of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

These new measures focus on digital verification, tighter booking rules, and better targeting of subsidies.

Mandatory OTP Verification for LPG Delivery

One of the biggest changes is the introduction of the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC). Under this system, customers will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on their registered mobile number when their cylinder is delivered.

The delivery will only be completed after the customer shares this OTP with the delivery person. This step replaces the earlier system of physical receipts or passbooks and aims to ensure that cylinders reach the correct users.

Longer Gap Between Cylinder Bookings

To stop hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders, the government has increased the minimum time gap between two bookings.

In cities, customers will now have to wait at least 25 days between bookings, up from the earlier 21 days. In rural areas, this waiting period can go up to 45 days.

If someone tries to book a cylinder before this period ends, the system will automatically reject the request. This move is expected to improve supply management and reduce misuse.

LPG Supply May Stop in Some Areas

Another major change affects households in areas where Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is already available. The government has said that LPG connections in such areas may be discontinued.

Residents have been given three months to switch to PNG. After this period, LPG distributors may stop refilling cylinders in those areas so that supplies can be redirected to rural and underserved regions.

eKYC Mandatory for Ujjwala Scheme Beneficiaries

For beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), Aadhaar-based eKYC has now become compulsory.

Those who do not complete this digital verification by May 1 may face suspension of LPG subsidies or even a complete block on booking cylinders. This step is aimed at ensuring that benefits reach genuine users.

Why These Changes Are Being Introduced

These new rules come as part of the government's effort to modernise the LPG system. By using digital tools and stricter checks, authorities hope to:

• Reduce fraud and black marketing
• Ensure fair distribution of subsidised fuel
• Improve transparency in delivery systems
• Prioritise supply for those who need it most

What Consumers Should Do

Consumers are advised to make sure their mobile numbers are updated with their LPG provider to receive OTPs for delivery. PMUY beneficiaries should complete their eKYC process as soon as possible to avoid any disruption in services.

Households in areas with PNG should also check their options and prepare for a possible switch within the given timeline.

The new LPG rules mark a significant shift towards a more digital and controlled system. While they may require some adjustment from consumers, the changes are designed to make the system more efficient, transparent, and fair for everyone.