Assam Government to Provide Free LPG Cylinders During Festivals Amid Supply Issues
Free LPG Cylinders for Eligible Families
A man carries an LPG cylinder amid disruptions due to the ongoing West Asia war, somewhere in India. (PTI image used for representational purpose)
Guwahati, April 4: In light of ongoing concerns regarding LPG supply disruptions and allegations of black marketing, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Saturday that eligible families will receive complimentary LPG cylinders during the Bihu and Durga Puja festivals.
“We have decided that every eligible family will be entitled to one free LPG cylinder during Bihu and Durga Puja. There will be no cost for these two cylinders,” the Chief Minister stated while addressing a gathering in Mahmora LAC.
However, he did not specify the criteria for eligibility.
This announcement comes as Assam faces a crisis regarding LPG availability, primarily due to alleged irregularities in the distribution system.
Oil marketing companies have conducted over 2,000 inspections in response to numerous complaints, issuing showcause notices to 18 distributors.
Authorities noted that these irregularities were uncovered through social media reports and customer feedback.
The situation has significantly affected daily life, especially in the food service industry.
Many roadside eateries and restaurants have either temporarily closed or reduced their operations due to inconsistent LPG supply. Some establishments have resorted to using electric cooking appliances, diesel-fired bhattis, and firewood as alternatives.
Despite these challenges, the government insists that there is no actual fuel shortage in the state.
Previously, Sarma made a public appeal, stating, “There is ample availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG in Assam. There is no need for concern, and I urge people to avoid panic buying.”
Officials confirmed that the LPG supply situation has been assessed at both Central and State levels. Domestic consumers are receiving their full allocation, while commercial LPG allocation has recently been increased by 10%, now reaching 70% following compliance with reform criteria.
During his address in Mahmora LAC, Sarma also outlined an employment initiative that will cover various sectors, including the recruitment of 25,000 police personnel, teachers, and positions in Grade III and IV, as well as jobs for nurses, doctors, pharmacists, engineers, and junior engineers.
“We are committed to creating one lakh government jobs,” he affirmed, while also promising welfare support through essential commodities such as rice, pulses, mustard oil, tea, and salt.
He further assured that if the BJP returns to power, the government will cover the education expenses for all children. “Parents will no longer need to worry about their children’s education costs,” he added.
In terms of local development, Sarma proposed the establishment of a police training academy in the constituency and announced plans for an ITI and a polytechnic institute.
He reiterated that tea garden workers would continue to benefit from land rights and housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
“Our government has consistently delivered more than what we promise, and we will continue to do so,” he concluded.