By:Himvani
Himachal Pradesh government has decided to launch a Modified Direct Benefit Transfer scheme called PAHAL in the state.
A Spokesman of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department said here today that Direct Benefit Transfer Scheme for LPG, PAHAL was launched in all districts of the state except Kinnaur and Lahaul Spiti. He said that the LPG consumers had got a grace period of three months, which was up to 14th February, 2015 during which they continued to receive the cylinders at subsidized rate.
He confirmed that from 15th February, 2015, sale of gas cylinders has started happening at market price for all LPG consumers. Those consumers who have joined PAHAL are getting subsidy amount directly in their bank accounts. The consumers, who still have not joined PAHAL are requested to do so immediately to get the subsidy.
The spokesman added that there is three months parking period till 14th May, 2015 during which sale will happen at market price for all LPG consumers. The LPG consumers, who join the scheme in this parking period, will receive their subsidy, which is due to them. If not joined during this period, the subsidy amount will lapse.
He said that to join PAHAL, the consumers have to link their Aadhaar number with both LPG consumer and bank account. He said that to link Aadhaar with LPG consumer number, the resident must hand over a copy of Aadhaar to his LPG dealer. Similarly, a copy of Aadhaar must also be given in the bank for linking. The spokesman has urged all LPG consumers in the state to join PAHAL at the earliest so that they continue to receive subsidy. He also confirmed that consumers who had already joined the scheme earlier and have received a cash subsidy in their bank accounts, need not do it again and can check their Aadhaar linking status by using facility of *99*99# from their mobiles.
