In India, the use of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) cylinders for household cooking is a widespread and essential service. Over the years, the Indian government, through public sector oil companies, has streamlined the process of applying for a gas cylinder to make it more accessible to all citizens. Whether you are applying for the first time, shifting to a new location, or looking for a second cylinder, this article provides a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about applying for a gas cylinder in India.
Types of Gas Cylinders in India
Before applying for a gas connection, it’s important to know the types of gas cylinders available:
1. Domestic LPG Cylinders
- Usually available in 14.2 kg (urban and semi-urban areas) and 5 kg (for smaller households or rural areas).
- Subsidized for eligible households under the government’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme.
2. Commercial LPG Cylinders
- Generally available in 19 kg, 35 kg, or 47.5 kg.
- Used by hotels, restaurants, and businesses.
- Not eligible for subsidy.
3. Mini LPG Cylinders
- Weigh 5 kg and available from LPG dealerships and select petrol pumps.
- Useful for bachelors, students, and small families.
Eligibility Criteria
Anyone who is an Indian citizen above the age of 18 and does not already have an LPG connection in their name is eligible to apply. Even individuals from economically weaker sections can apply under special government schemes like PM Ujjwala Yojana.
Documents Required
When applying for a new LPG connection, the following documents are generally required:
1. Proof of Identity (any one)
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- PAN Card
- Driving License
- Passport
2. Proof of Address (any one)
- Ration Card
- Electricity/Water Bill
- Rental Agreement
- Passport
- Aadhaar Card (if address is updated)
3. Photograph
- One or two passport-size photographs
4. KYC Form
- Most LPG companies require you to fill a KYC (Know Your Customer) form.
5. Aadhaar Linking (for subsidy)
- If applying for a subsidized connection, Aadhaar should be linked with bank account and LPG account.
Top LPG Providers in India
- Indane Gas (Indian Oil Corporation)
- Bharat Gas (Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.)
- HP Gas (Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd.)
All three companies offer similar services and have extensive distributor networks across the country.
How to Apply for a Gas Cylinder
There are two primary methods to apply: Online and Offline.
A. Online Method
Each of the major LPG providers offers online booking through their official websites and mobile apps. Here’s a general step-by-step:
Step 1: Visit the official website
- Indane Gas
- Bharat Gas
- HP Gas
Step 2: Create an account
Register with your name, email ID, mobile number, and password.
Step 3: Fill the New Connection form
Provide personal details, address, identity proof, and address proof.
Step 4: Upload Documents
Scan and upload required documents (as listed above).
Step 5: Choose Distributor
Select the nearest gas distributor from the list provided.
Step 6: Pay Registration Fee
Pay online for the gas connection kit (includes cylinder, regulator, and pipe).
Step 7: Verification
A representative may visit your residence for address and identity verification.
Step 8: Delivery
Upon successful verification, you will receive your cylinder and regulator at your doorstep.
B. Offline Method
If you’re not comfortable with online application, you can follow this method:
Step 1: Visit the Nearest LPG Distributor
Visit the office of any nearby Indane, Bharat Gas, or HP Gas agency.
Step 2: Collect and Fill the Application Form
Get the new connection form and fill it with all necessary details.
Step 3: Submit the Form with Documents
Submit the form along with the required identity and address proofs.
Step 4: KYC Verification
Wait for the verification process to be completed by the distributor.
Step 5: Pay the Fee
Once approved, pay the registration and equipment charges.
Step 6: Delivery
You will receive the cylinder, regulator, and hose after the verification is complete.
Subsidy for Gas Cylinders
The Government of India provides a subsidy for LPG cylinders under the Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG (DBTL) scheme, also known as PAHAL. The subsidy is directly credited to the consumer’s bank account.
How to Avail the Subsidy:
- Link your Aadhaar card with your bank account.
- Link your Aadhaar number with your LPG connection.
- Ensure that your bank account is active and eligible to receive the subsidy.
Special Schemes: PM Ujjwala Yojana
This scheme aims to provide LPG connections to women from below-poverty-line (BPL) households.
Benefits:
- Free LPG connection
- Subsidized first refill
- Free stove and regulator
Conclusion
Applying for a gas cylinder in India has become significantly easier in recent years, thanks to digitization and streamlined government processes. Whether you choose to go the online or offline route, ensure that all your documents are in place to avoid delays. Subsidies and special schemes like the Ujjwala Yojana have made clean cooking fuel accessible to millions of households.
Having an LPG connection not only enhances convenience but also promotes healthier living by reducing dependence on firewood and kerosene. With the right knowledge and documents, getting a new gas connection is a smooth and simple process for every Indian citizen.
