The price of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) in India is an important factor for millions of households, as it is widely used for cooking. The state-run oil companies determine the price of LPG every month, and the government provides subsidies to make it affordable for domestic use. The cost of LPG affects both homes and businesses, but domestic users benefit from financial support from the government.
How LPG Prices Are Determined in India
LPG prices in India are influenced by two main factors: international benchmark rates of LPG and the exchange rate of the Indian rupee against the US dollar. These factors are reviewed every month, and prices are revised accordingly. The domestic LPG price is lower than commercial LPG prices because of the government subsidy provided to households.
Subsidy is credited directly into the bank accounts of eligible customers after each cylinder purchase. The amount varies monthly depending on global prices and currency fluctuations.
Current LPG Prices in Metro Cities
Domestic and commercial LPG prices vary across cities. Here are the rates for some major metro cities today:
- New Delhi: Domestic ₹853, Commercial ₹1,691 (+111)
- Mumbai: Domestic ₹852.50, Commercial ₹1,642.50 (+111)
- Kolkata: Domestic ₹879, Commercial ₹1,795 (+111)
- Chennai: Domestic ₹868.50, Commercial ₹1,849.50 (+110)
- Bangalore: Domestic ₹855.50, Commercial ₹1,764.50 (+110.50)
Domestic cylinders are generally 14.2 kg, while commercial cylinders range from 19 kg to 47.5 kg.
Major LPG Providers in India
There are three primary state-run LPG providers in India:
1. Bharat Gas: Operated by BPCL, Bharat Gas provides domestic and commercial connections. Customers can book cylinders online, via SMS, or at distributor offices.
2. Indane Gas: Managed by Indian Oil Corporation, Indane Gas serves households and businesses. Booking can be done online, through apps, or by IVRS.
3. HP Gas: Run by Hindustan Petroleum, HP Gas offers home deliveries and subsidized rates under government schemes.
How LPG Is Made
LPG is produced from refining crude oil and processing natural gas. It consists of propane, butane, and isobutane. The gas is pressurized and stored in cylinders for safe household or commercial use. Transportation of LPG is done via pipelines, tankers, rail, or trucks.
Domestic vs Commercial LPG Cylinders
Domestic Cylinders:
- Mainly for household cooking.
- Subsidized by the government.
- Available in 5 kg and 14.2 kg cylinders.
- Red-colored cylinders for easy identification.
Commercial Cylinders:
- Used in hotels, restaurants, industries, transport, and agriculture.
- Not subsidized.
- Available in 5 kg, 19 kg, and 47.5 kg cylinders.
- Blue-colored cylinders.
How to Book an LPG Cylinder
Booking an LPG cylinder is now easier with multiple options:
- 1. Distributor Office: Visit your local distributor to book a cylinder.
- 2. Online: Use official websites to order and pay for cylinders.
- 3. Mobile App: Apps like Indane, HP Gas, or Bharat Gas allow booking and payment from smartphones.
- 4. SMS: Registered customers can book by sending an SMS in a specific format.
- 5. IVRS: Dial the Interactive Voice Response System number to place orders by phone.
Apps like Amazon and Paytm now also provide seamless LPG booking and payment options, making it more convenient for consumers.
Linking Aadhaar to LPG for Subsidy
To receive the LPG subsidy, consumers must link their Aadhaar number with their gas connection. Methods include:
- Offline: Fill a form and submit it to the distributor.
- Online: Use UIDAI portal or gas provider websites.
- SMS & IVRS: Send Aadhaar details via SMS or follow voice instructions through IVRS.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
The PMUY scheme provides LPG connections to women from below poverty line (BPL) households. The government offers Rs 1,600 per connection and interest-free loans for gas stoves and cylinders. Beneficiaries must be women from eligible BPL households without an existing LPG connection.
Pros of LPG
- Burns cleanly with minimal emissions.
- Quick cooking and easy flame control.
- Portable and easy to store.
- Economical and efficient fuel.
Cons of LPG
- Risk of explosion if handled incorrectly.
- Irregular supply in some areas.
- High initial cost for cylinders and stove.
- Heavier than air; leakage may cause suffocation.
Conclusion
LPG remains one of the most important cooking fuels in India, offering convenience, efficiency, and a cleaner environment compared to traditional fuels. With government subsidies, PMUY scheme, and multiple booking options, LPG is accessible to most households. While commercial users face higher costs, domestic users benefit from affordability and government support.
FAQs
What is the current price of a domestic LPG cylinder in India?
Domestic 14.2 kg LPG cylinder prices range from ₹850 to ₹950 depending on the city.
How many LPG cylinders can a household get at subsidized rates?
A household can get up to 12 cylinders per year at subsidized rates.
How can I book an LPG cylinder online?
You can book online via the official website of your LPG provider, mobile apps, Amazon App, or Paytm.
How do I link my Aadhaar with LPG connection?
Linking can be done offline at the distributor, online via UIDAI portal, SMS, or IVRS.
Who is eligible for PMUY scheme?
Women from below poverty line households without an LPG connection are eligible under PMUY.
Can I transfer my LPG connection to a new residence?
Yes, you can transfer your connection to a new residence within the same city or to another city via your distributor.