DBTL (PAHAL) Scheme
- Launched: January 2015 by the Government of India.
- Objective: To transfer the LPG subsidy amount directly to the bank accounts of beneficiaries, promoting transparency and reducing leakages.
- Key Principle: LPG is sold at market price; subsidy is later reimbursed to eligible consumers via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Schemes)
Core Features
- All LPG cylinders are sold at non-subsidised prices.
- The eligible subsidy amount is transferred directly to consumers’ bank accounts.
- Applies to both existing customers and new beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).
Key Achievements (as of July 1, 2025)
- 4.08 crore duplicate, fake/non-existent or inactive LPG connections have been blocked, suspended, or deactivated.
- Enabled identification and removal of:
- Ghost connections (non-existent).
- Multiple connections under one name.
- Inactive or unverified users.
- Helped curb misuse and diversion of subsidised LPG for commercial use.
Role of Technology & Verification
- Aadhaar-enabled DBT authentication:
- Allows real-time, accurate, and cost-effective beneficiary identification and de-duplication.
- Ensures only eligible citizens receive the subsidy.
- Biometric authentication:
- Public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have been directed to complete biometric Aadhaar authentication of all PMUY and PAHAL beneficiaries.
- As of July 1, 2025, 67% of PMUY beneficiaries have undergone biometric verification.
Common LPG Database Platform (CLDP)
- A centralised database used to:
- Identify and eliminate duplicate or fake connections.
- Use parameters like Aadhaar number, bank account, ration card, address, and name for cross-verification.
- CLDP supports targeted delivery and enhances database accuracy across agencies.
Special Focus on PMUY (Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana)
- New PMUY beneficiaries must complete biometric Aadhaar authentication before receiving LPG connections.
- Ensures subsidies are targeted at intended poor households, mainly women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families.
Impact on Governance & Welfare Delivery
- Promotes:
- Transparency.
- Accountability.
- Financial inclusion (through Aadhaar-linked bank accounts).
- Aids in rationalising subsidy expenditure.
- Strengthens India’s overall social safety net and welfare delivery mechanisms.
Broader Significance
- DBTL is a global case study in the use of fintech and digital identity for subsidy reform.
- Forms part of India’s JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) based governance.
