Clarification on LPG Biometric Authentication by Petroleum Ministry

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has provided clarification regarding biometric Aadhaar authentication for LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) consumers. In a post on social media, the ministry stated that e-KYC is only necessary for users who have not yet completed their authentication, and it is not mandatory for all customers. This clarification comes amid reports suggesting that LPG users must complete this process to receive their cylinders without interruption. The ministry emphasized that this is not a new directive. This recent announcement is part of the government's ongoing efforts to encourage more LPG consumers to complete biometric Aadhaar authentication.

According to the notification, the e-KYC requirement applies solely to those LPG consumers who have not yet completed the authentication process. The clarification indicated that e-KYC is necessary only for those who have not undergone it. If you are not a beneficiary of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) and have already completed the process, there is no need to do it again.

In light of ongoing tensions in West Asia and rising concerns over energy supply, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has outlined several measures to accelerate the adoption of piped natural gas (PNG) and expand urban gas infrastructure across the country. Under this initiative, the government is encouraging consumers, particularly commercial LPG users in major cities and urban areas, to switch to PNG.

Urban gas distribution (CGD) companies have been advised to actively reach out to potential customers and facilitate connections through various channels, including email, customer portals, letters, and call centers.

The ministry noted that during this period of global uncertainty, efforts are underway to reduce reliance on traditional LPG supplies. Several CGD entities are incentivizing the adoption of PNG. The central government has requested state governments and union territories to expedite the approval process for laying CGD pipelines and to eliminate procedural hurdles. Measures mentioned include automatic approvals for pending pipeline infrastructure applications, ensuring new CGD permissions are granted within 24 hours, waiving road reconstruction and other permit fees imposed by state or local authorities, relaxing working hours and seasonal restrictions to expedite project execution, and appointing state-level nodal officers to enhance coordination and enable faster implementation.

During an inter-ministerial press conference on Tuesday, Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas addressed concerns regarding LPG supply. She stated that while there is a sufficient stock of crude oil, LPG supply remains a concern. She assured that petrol and diesel are available in adequate quantities. Regarding natural gas, she mentioned that the government is making efforts, and it would be beneficial if all commercial LPG consumers transitioned to PNG. Despite concerns about LPG supply, no reports of shortages have been received from LPG distributors across India.