The Deepam scheme is a government initiative in Andhra Pradesh that aims to provide free gas cylinders to women beneficiaries.
- Active LPG Connection in the State: The beneficiary must have an active LPG connection within the state of Andhra Pradesh.
- Aadhaar Number: A valid Aadhaar number is mandatory for all beneficiaries.
- Rice Card: The beneficiary must possess a valid rice card issued by the state government.
- Data Validation: The LPG connection, Aadhaar number, and rice card details of the beneficiary must be verified and matched with other relevant government databases.
By meeting these criteria, eligible beneficiaries can avail the benefits of the Deepam scheme and receive free gas cylinders.
Implementation of the Deepam Scheme in 2024 - 2025
To effectively implement the Deepam Scheme, the following steps will be taken:
- Scheme Launch: The Deepam Scheme will be officially launched on October 31, 2024.
- Beneficiary Identification: All eligible beneficiaries will be identified by the Civil Supplies Department.
- Free Cylinder Distribution: Each eligible beneficiary will receive three free LPG cylinders per year.
- Subsidy Transfer Mechanism:
- The state government subsidy will be transferred to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-linked bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- This mechanism is similar to the current central government subsidy transfer process.
- The subsidy will be transferred within 24 hours of cylinder delivery.
- Initial Cylinder Distribution:
- Beneficiaries can start booking their first free cylinder from October 31, 2024.
- This initial cylinder can be availed until March 2025.
- Subsequent Cylinder Distribution:
- For the following years, three cylinders will be distributed in four-month blocks:
- April to July
- August to November
- December to March
- One cylinder will be provided per block period.
- For the following years, three cylinders will be distributed in four-month blocks:
- Financial Arrangements:
- A pool account will be opened with the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) by the Finance or Civil Supplies Department.
- The Finance Department will transfer the necessary funds to the OMCs to facilitate the scheme’s implementation.
By following these action points, the government aims to ensure the smooth and efficient implementation of the Deepam Scheme, benefiting a large number of eligible households in Andhra Pradesh.
Government Approval for the AP Deepam Scheme
The Andhra Pradesh government has approved the Deepam Scheme as proposed by the Commissioner of Civil Supplies. Key approvals include:
- Data Verification Methodology: The government has approved the methodology for verifying data and selecting eligible beneficiaries, as proposed by the Civil Supplies Department and concurred by the Finance Department.
- Budget Allocation:
- Initial Budget: Approximately Rs. 894.92 crore has been sanctioned for the implementation of the scheme from Deepavali (October 31, 2024).
- Annual Budget: Approximately Rs. 2,684.75 crore has been allocated annually for the supply of three free LPG cylinders per beneficiary.
- Pool Account: The government has approved the opening of a pool account with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to facilitate the scheme’s implementation.
- Subsidy Payment Mechanism: The government will follow the existing subsidy payment mechanism used by the central government and five other states. This involves transferring the state subsidy to the beneficiary’s Aadhaar-linked bank account through the Public Finance Management System (PFMS) after the cylinder delivery.
Financial Provisions for the Deepam Scheme
- Major Head: Civil Supplies (3456)
- Sub-Major Head: Not Applicable (00)
- Minor Head: Consumer Subsidies (103)
- Group Sub-Head: State Development Schemes (II)
- Sub-Head: Subsidy on Domestic LPG Scheme (10)
- Detailed Head: Subsidies (330)
- Sub-Detailed Head: Subsidies to Individual Beneficiaries (331)
By allocating funds through this specific Head of Account, the government aims to effectively manage the financial resources required for the scheme’s implementation and ensure that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.
Free Gas Booking Apps
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How to Check Deepam Scheme Amount and Payment Status
When you receive a free gas cylinder under the Deepam scheme, you’ll need to pay the full amount to the gas agency. However, don’t worry! The government will reimburse you for the entire amount.
- Aadhaar Linking: Ensure your bank account is linked to your Aadhaar card.
- Processing Time: The subsidy transfer may take up to 48 hours.
- Cylinder Cost: The current cost is approximately Rs. 825-850.
- Payment to Agency: Pay the full amount to the gas agency at the time of delivery.
State Government Subsidy Transfer :
Within 48 hours of your payment, the state government will directly transfer the subsidy amount to your bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This means you’ll receive the subsidy amount back into your account.
